On September 29, 1991, a Grumman G164A-450 (registration N16SS) operated by K & K Aerial Applicators Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Queen Creek, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE ENGINE CYLINDER, PRODUCING A LOSS OF POWER. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LOCATION OF AN IRRIGATION DITCH NEXT TO THE LANDING AREA AND A DARK NIGHT LIGHT CONDITION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot conducting nighttime aerial spraying performed a forced landing on a dirt road after seeing engine sparks and losing power. The aircraft struck a ditch and nosed over; the pilot received minor injuries.
Incident Details
A certificated commercial pilot was conducting aerial spraying operations over a cotton field at night. During a spray run, the pilot observed sparks emanating from the engine. He attempted to gain altitude as the engine began to lose power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing on a dirt road adjacent to the field.
Landing and Damage
During the touchdown, the airplane struck a ditch along the side of the road. The airplane then bounced and nosed over. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of the engine revealed that a cylinder had a circumferential separation near the top of the cooling fins.
What happened in the 29 Sept 1991 Grumman G164A-450 accident near Queen Creek, AZ?
A commercial pilot conducting nighttime aerial spraying performed a forced landing on a dirt road after seeing engine sparks and losing power. The aircraft struck a ditch and nosed over; the pilot received minor injuries.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Sept 1991 Grumman G164A-450 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Sept 1991 involved a Grumman G164A-450, registration N16SS, operated by K & K Aerial Applicators Inc., at Queen Creek, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FAILURE OF THE ENGINE CYLINDER, PRODUCING A LOSS OF POWER. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LOCATION OF AN IRRIGATION DITCH NEXT TO THE LANDING AREA AND A DARK NIGHT LIGHT CONDITION.
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