Casualties unknown

1995-05-19: Grumman G-164A (N9830) — Paul P. Miller — Colusa, CA

Colusa, CA, US

On May 19, 1995, a Grumman G-164A (registration N9830) operated by Paul P. Miller was involved in an aviation accident near Colusa, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's misjudged flare height and timing, which resulted in an inadvertent stall and hard landing. Factors in the accident were the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and the lack of a suitable forced landing area. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced gradual engine power loss during a rice seed spraying flight. Unable to maintain altitude, he attempted a forced landing in a flooded field. The aircraft stalled about 10 feet above ground and landed hard. Post-accident engine examination revealed no discrepancies.

Accident Summary

A pilot was conducting an agricultural spraying operation, specifically spreading rice seeds, when the aircraft's engine began to lose power. According to the pilot, the power loss was characterized as a gradual reduction in output without any associated roughness or vibration. Despite applying full throttle, the engine's power output continued to decline.

Pilot Report

The pilot decided to perform a forced landing in a flooded field, which he identified as the only clear area free of obstructions that he could reach with the available power. As the aircraft descended, it stalled approximately 10 feet above the ground, resulting in a hard landing.

Investigation Findings

Following the accident, an examination of the engine was conducted. No discrepancies were found during the inspection of the engine.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03495. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.