On August 16, 1993, a Schweizer G-164B (registration N8451K) operated by Airwork Ent OF Florida Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Immokalee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED (VS) WHILE MANEUVERING RESULTING IN A STALL/MUSH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot completing a spray run experienced a mushy feel and settling into trees. Despite jettisoning the load and applying full power, the aircraft collided with trees.
Accident Details
The pilot, a commercial pilot engaged in aerial application operations, had just finished a spray run to the south. While maneuvering back towards the west and beginning to level out at approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the airplane felt mushy and started to settle into the trees. The chemical load was jettisoned and full power was applied, but the airplane collided with trees and crashed.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that his indicated airspeed at the time of collision with the trees was estimated to be between 60 and 65 miles per hour.
Aircraft Performance
Review of the pilot's operating handbook for the aircraft indicates that the power-off stall speed is 60 miles per hour.