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Loss of Power During Takeoff Leads to Inverted Landing on Grass Strip (N48377)

Lake Arthur, LA, US

On July 19, 1989, a Schweizer G-164A (registration N48377) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Arthur, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE HIGH WEEDS (VEGETATION) & LEVEE (DIRT BANK) WERE CONSIDERED TO BE RELATED FACTORS. 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

A pilot experiencing a manifold pressure loss during takeoff from a 1,600-foot grass strip veered right, striking high weeds and a levee, resulting in the airplane ending up inverted. No cause for the power loss was identified.

Incident Overview

During a takeoff roll on a 1,600-foot grass airstrip, the pilot observed a reduction in manifold pressure. Initially set at 36 inches, the pressure dropped to 28 inches when the aircraft was approximately three-quarters of the way down the strip. The pilot initiated a load dump and, upon reaching the end of the airstrip, veered the airplane to the right.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane turned, the right wing entered high weeds and the left landing gear struck a small levee. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest in an inverted position. The pilot had started the takeoff roll with 36 inches of manifold pressure and noticed the decrease during the roll.

Investigation Findings

Subsequent examination of the aircraft and engine systems did not reveal a reason for the loss of manifold pressure. The investigation concluded that no mechanical or operational cause could be determined for the power reduction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jul 1989 Schweizer G-164A accident near Lake Arthur, LA?

A pilot experiencing a manifold pressure loss during takeoff from a 1,600-foot grass strip veered right, striking high weeds and a levee, resulting in the airplane ending up inverted. No cause for the power loss was identified.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jul 1989 involved a Schweizer G-164A, registration N48377, at Lake Arthur, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE HIGH WEEDS (VEGETATION) & LEVEE (DIRT BANK) WERE CONSIDERED TO BE RELATED FACTORS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28823. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.