On July 3, 1985, a Grumman G-164A (registration N8375) was involved in an aviation accident near Tallulah, LA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb, an agricultural aircraft could not clear wires, stalled after dumping load. Investigation found ground personnel substituted ammonium nitrate for urea, adding 800 lbs without pilot's knowledge.
Incident Details
During the initial climb following takeoff, the pilot of an agricultural aircraft realized that he could not clear wires at the end of the runway. In response, the pilot dumped the load of fertilizer and attempted to maneuver around the wires. During the maneuver, the aircraft stalled.
Investigation Findings
The subsequent investigation revealed that ground personnel had substituted ammonium nitrate for urea in the fertilizer load. By volume, ammonium nitrate is heavier than urea. This substitution increased the aircraft's gross weight by 800 pounds. The pilot was not made aware of the substitution prior to takeoff.
What happened in the 3 Jul 1985 Grumman G-164A accident near Tallulah, LA?
During initial climb, an agricultural aircraft could not clear wires, stalled after dumping load. Investigation found ground personnel substituted ammonium nitrate for urea, adding 800 lbs without pilot's knowledge.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jul 1985 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N8375, at Tallulah, LA.
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