On July 22, 1987, a Grumman G-164A (registration N5398) operated by Loren Buss was involved in an aviation accident near Romeo, CO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that his aircraft encountered a downdraft while turning after a swath run, causing it to settle, collide with the ground, bounce, and nose over. The aircraft was loaded with amines and avgas under high density altitude conditions.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot's report, the accident sequence unfolded as follows: The aircraft was performing a swath run. After completing the swath run, it began a turn. During the turn, the aircraft encountered a downdraft. As a result, the aircraft started to descend. It then struck the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to bounce. It then hit the ground a second time. Finally, the aircraft nosed over.
Aircraft Loading and Conditions
At the time of the accident, the aircraft was carrying 280 gallons of amine and 70 gallons of aviation gasoline. The density altitude was estimated at 9,600 feet. The aircraft's weight was near its gross takeoff weight.