No fatalities

Engine Malfunction Leads to Collision with Power Lines and Trees (N7687)

Cottonwood, AL, US

On June 21, 1987, a Grumman G-164A (registration N7687) operated by Ashford Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Cottonwood, AL. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During an agricultural flight, an engine shook and backfired after the first swath run. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on a road but collided with power lines and trees.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that preflight and runup checks were normal. After completing the first swath run, the engine began to shake and backfire. The pilot pulled up and proceeded across a swamp toward a paved road intended for an emergency landing strip.

Sequence of Events

As the aircraft crossed the swamp, the engine continued to lose power. The aircraft subsequently collided with a power line and trees just short of the intended road. No fire occurred following the impact.

Damage and Injuries

The engine sustained heavy damage during the impact sequence. The pilot was not injured.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jun 1987 Grumman G-164A accident near Cottonwood, AL?

During an agricultural flight, an engine shook and backfired after the first swath run. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on a road but collided with power lines and trees.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Jun 1987 Grumman G-164A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jun 1987 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N7687, operated by Ashford Air Service, at Cottonwood, AL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31109. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.