FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Backfire Lead to Emergency Landing and Nose-Over (N6750Q)

West Point, AR, US

On March 15, 1988, a Grumman G-164B (registration N6750Q) operated by Howard's Flying Service Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near West Point, AR. 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

Shortly after takeoff for an aerial application flight, the engine lost power and began backfiring. The pilot jettisoned part of the load and executed an emergency landing in a soft, unplanted bean field. The aircraft nosed over after rolling about 200 feet. Postflight inspection found a cracked No. 6 cylinder; the aircraft was declared a total loss.

Incident Description

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff while en route to an aerial application operation, the engine began to lose power and started backfiring. In response, the pilot jettisoned a portion of the load to reduce weight and performed an emergency landing in a soft, unplanted bean field.

Emergency Landing and Outcome

During the landing roll, after traveling approximately 200 feet, the wheels sank into the soft soil, causing the aircraft to nose over. The aircraft came to rest in an inverted position.

Postflight Inspection

A postflight inspection of the engine revealed a crack in the No. 6 cylinder. The insurance company subsequently declared the aircraft a total loss.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Mar 1988 Grumman G-164B accident near West Point, AR?

Shortly after takeoff for an aerial application flight, the engine lost power and began backfiring. The pilot jettisoned part of the load and executed an emergency landing in a soft, unplanted bean field. The aircraft nosed over after rolling about 200 feet. Postflight inspection found a cracked No. 6 cylinder; the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Mar 1988 involved a Grumman G-164B, registration N6750Q, operated by Howard's Flying Service Inc., at West Point, AR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25319. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.