On October 8, 1987, a Grumman G-164A (registration N6743Q) operated by White Castle Fertilizer Coop was involved in an aviation accident near Port Allen, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The partial loss of engine power caused by a cracked number 7 cylinder, which prevented the pilot from returning to the airfield and resulted in an inverted landing in high vegetation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced partial engine power loss while pulling up from a swath run during agricultural operations. Unable to return to the field, he landed in vegetation and flipped the aircraft inverted.
What happened
The pilot was conducting agricultural spraying operations when he encountered a partial loss of engine power during the pull-up phase from a swath run. Recognizing the mechanical issue, he attempted to return to the airfield where he had been working to execute an emergency landing. However, due to the inadequate engine power available, he was unable to make it back to the field.
Consequently, the pilot was forced to land in an area of high vegetation. Upon impact with the dense plant life, the aircraft flipped and came to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the engine was conducted following the accident. The inspection revealed significant internal damage, specifically noting that the number 7 cylinder was cracked completely around the barrel.
Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power caused by a cracked number 7 cylinder, which prevented the pilot from returning to the airfield and resulted in an inverted landing in high vegetation.