On July 28, 1989, a Grumman G-164B (registration N8116K) operated by Chris Air Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Portland, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of cylinder number one, which led to a loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an aerial application mission, the pilot experienced a gradual loss of power and dumped chemicals before attempting an emergency landing in a field that resulted in a nose-over.
What happened
The accident occurred while the aircraft was engaged in an aerial application operation. The pilot reported experiencing a gradual loss of engine power during the mission. In response to the deteriorating performance, the pilot dumped the chemical load and attempted to return to the base airfield.
While en route back to the field, the engine quit completely. The pilot then attempted an emergency landing in a soft farm field. The landing resulted in a nose-over of the aircraft.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection revealed that cylinder number one had failed. This mechanical failure was identified as the cause of the power loss and subsequent engine shutdown.
Probable cause
The failure of cylinder number one, which led to a loss of engine power.