On July 9, 1991, a Grumman G-164B (registration N6633K) operated by AL Don Dusting Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Eloy, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN THE TERRAIN CLEARANCE OF THE AIRCRAFT WHILE MANEUVERING FOR A POTENTIAL EMERGENCY LANDING ON A MOONLESS DARK NIGHT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducting a night spray run reported partial engine power loss during initial climb. The aircraft collided with terrain about one mile from the airstrip. FAA inspection found no system abnormalities.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot's statement, the aircraft had just departed from the airstrip for a night spray run. During the initial climb after takeoff, the pilot sensed that the engine was not producing adequate power. He then aligned the aircraft for a possible landing in an open area while attempting to remedy the power problem. The aircraft subsequently collided with the terrain about one mile from the runway. The accident occurred on a dark night with no moon.
Investigation
The engine and aircraft systems were examined by FAA airworthiness inspectors. In their verbal report of the examination, no aircraft system abnormalities were found.