Casualties unknown

Aerial Application Flight Ends in Terrain Impact After Altitude Loss (N9544)

Dighton, KS, US

On July 20, 1996, a Grumman-schweizer G-164A (registration N9544) operated by Root Spraying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Dighton, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). The crop and soft terrain in the emergency landing area were related factors. 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

An agricultural aircraft lost altitude shortly after takeoff; despite full power and dumping the chemical load, it continued descending and struck terrain. No engine malfunction was found.

Incident Overview

Shortly after takeoff for an aerial application mission, the pilot observed a loss of altitude. In response, he advanced the throttle to full power and released the chemical load. Despite these actions, the airplane continued to descend and subsequently impacted terrain.

Post-Incident Examination

A post-incident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical malfunction that would have resulted in a partial loss of power. The investigation did not identify any pre-impact engine anomalies.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the incident, the reported temperature was 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and the density altitude was 5,175 feet. No further details regarding weather conditions were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 1996 Grumman-schweizer G-164A accident near Dighton, KS?

An agricultural aircraft lost altitude shortly after takeoff; despite full power and dumping the chemical load, it continued descending and struck terrain. No engine malfunction was found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 1996 involved a Grumman-schweizer G-164A, registration N9544, operated by Root Spraying Service, at Dighton, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). The crop and soft terrain in the emergency landing area were related factors.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06184. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.