On February 25, 1992, a Grumman G-164B (registration N3633C) operated by Sunrise Duster, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Dixon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S PREMATURE LIFT-OFF. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE INADVERTENT STALL/MUSH AND THE SOFT DIRT AIRSTRIP. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A certificated commercial pilot, sole occupant, departing a dirt airstrip for an aerial application flight with chemicals experienced a premature lift-off. The airplane settled back onto the soft surface, ran off the end, and nosed over in a wheat field.
Incident Overview
A certificated commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant of the airplane, was departing a dirt airstrip to begin an aerial application flight. The aircraft was loaded with chemicals at the time of the incident.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the pilot lifted off prematurely. The airplane became airborne briefly, then settled back onto the soft surface of the airstrip. Subsequently, the airplane ran off the end of the airstrip and nosed over in a wheat field.
Aircraft Status
The airstrip had not been utilized since recent rains, which may have contributed to the soft surface condition. The airplane was determined to be within weight and balance limits at the time of the incident.