On June 28, 1990, a Grumman G-164A (registration N6887Q) operated by Lonnie D. Hartwig was involved in an aviation accident near Edgeley, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A MOMENTARY POWER INTERRUPTION DURING INITIAL CLIMB FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot experienced a momentary partial power loss during takeoff from a field strip for an aerial application flight. The aircraft struck a fence, traveled through vegetation, then nosed over after power was reduced, coming to rest inverted. Investigators found no evidence explaining the power interruption.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot conducting an aerial application flight reported a partial power loss during initial climb after takeoff from a field strip. The aircraft subsequently struck a cross fence, and the main landing gear entered standing vegetation, continuing for approximately 900 feet. Although the engine returned to full power, the aircraft was unable to climb clear of the vegetation.
Landing and Final Position
The pilot reduced power with the intention to land, but the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. All four wing spars were damaged, and the fuselage was twisted. Approximately 200 gallons of Penncap-M chemical mixture spilled over the pilot, who remained pinned under the wreckage.
Investigation
The investigation did not reveal any evidence to explain the reported engine power interruption. No further contributing factors were identified in the incident.