On July 15, 1989, a Grumman G-164A (registration N5252) operated by Farm America was involved in an aviation accident near Eloy, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INAEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION DURING THE CLIMB AFTER TAKEOFF, DUE TO VERY LITTLE FUEL REMAINING IN THE TANKS. THE ROUGH/UNEVEN DESERT TERRAIN WAS CONSIDERED TO BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a takeoff to relocate the aircraft, the engine lost power at about 150 feet. The pilot performed an emergency landing on desert terrain, causing the aircraft to nose over. Post-accident examination revealed very little fuel remaining, but no mechanical failure was found.
Accident Overview
An aircraft experienced an engine power loss during takeoff while on a flight to move the aircraft to another location. The power loss occurred at an altitude of approximately 150 feet. Subsequently, the aircraft nosed over during an emergency landing on desert terrain.
Pilot Report and Post-Accident Findings
In an interview after the accident, the pilot reported that there was enough fuel on board the aircraft to reach the destination. However, when the aircraft was examined after the accident, very little fuel was found remaining in the fuel tanks. No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft or engine was found.
What happened in the 15 Jul 1989 Grumman G-164A accident near Eloy, AZ?
During a takeoff to relocate the aircraft, the engine lost power at about 150 feet. The pilot performed an emergency landing on desert terrain, causing the aircraft to nose over. Post-accident examination revealed very little fuel remaining, but no mechanical failure was found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jul 1989 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N5252, operated by Farm America, at Eloy, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INAEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION DURING THE CLIMB AFTER TAKEOFF, DUE TO VERY LITTLE FUEL REMAINING IN THE TANKS. THE ROUGH/UNEVEN DESERT TERRAIN WAS CONSIDERED TO BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.
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