Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Engine Failure Forces Landing in Flooded Rice Field (N48495)

Grady, AR, US

On July 9, 1992, a Grumman G-164A (registration N48495) operated by Bobby G. O'briant was involved in an aviation accident near Grady, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO A FAILED CYLINDER. A FACTOR WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During daylight agricultural operations, a pilot heard a bang in the engine followed by complete power loss during initial climb. Forced landing in a flooded rice field resulted in the aircraft nosing over inverted; examination revealed a blown number six cylinder.

Incident Summary

A pilot performing agricultural operations during daylight hours experienced a sudden engine anomaly. While in the initial climb phase of a takeoff, the pilot heard a bang from the engine. Immediately afterward, the engine lost all power, leaving the aircraft without thrust.

Emergency Landing

With no engine power available, the pilot initiated a forced landing. The intended landing site was a flooded rice field. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the engine was conducted following the incident. The inspection revealed that the number six cylinder had blown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1992 Grumman G-164A accident near Grady, AR?

During daylight agricultural operations, a pilot heard a bang in the engine followed by complete power loss during initial climb. Forced landing in a flooded rice field resulted in the aircraft nosing over inverted; examination revealed a blown number six cylinder.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1992 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N48495, operated by Bobby G. O'briant, at Grady, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO A FAILED CYLINDER. A FACTOR WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15142. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.