On May 14, 1991, a Grumman G-164A (registration N8792H) operated by Schumacher Agri-flite, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Lapwai, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Encounter with downdrafts and rapid sink during aerial application operations, which led to loss of control and subsequent damage upon landing in muddy soil. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an aerial application mission, the pilot encountered downdrafts and rapid sink near the field edge. Attempts to correct resulted in main gear contact with crops and a subsequent slide into muddy soil where the aircraft caught fire.
What happened
The incident occurred during aerial application activity when the pilot reported encountering downdrafts and rapid sink conditions at the edge of the target field. In an effort to maintain control and altitude, the pilot attempted to correct the descent rate. Despite these efforts, the main landing gear made contact with the crops before the aircraft fully touched down on the muddy soil.
The aircraft slid along the ground until it came to a stop. Following the impact and slide, the aircraft began to burn.
Probable cause
Encounter with downdrafts and rapid sink during aerial application operations, which led to loss of control and subsequent damage upon landing in muddy soil.
What happened in the 14 May 1991 Grumman G-164A accident near Lapwai, ID?
During an aerial application mission, the pilot encountered downdrafts and rapid sink near the field edge. Attempts to correct resulted in main gear contact with crops and a subsequent slide into muddy soil where the aircraft caught fire.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 May 1991 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N8792H, operated by Schumacher Agri-flite, Inc, at Lapwai, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Encounter with downdrafts and rapid sink during aerial application operations, which led to loss of control and subsequent damage upon landing in muddy soil.
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