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Grumman G-164A accident at Gillett, AR, 18 Mar 1999 (N8742H)

Gillett, AR, US

On March 18, 1999, a Grumman G-164A (registration N8742H) was involved in an aviation accident near Gillett, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during the downwind departure. Factors were the tailwind and the wet soft grass airstrip. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during the downwind departure. Factors were the tailwind and the wet soft grass airstrip.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The agricultural aircraft impacted the terrain during the downwind takeoff/initial climb to the south from the wet and soft grass airstrip (2,600 feet). The operator reported the winds were from the north at 15 knots. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported on the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2).

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Mar 1999 Grumman G-164A accident near Gillett, AR?

The agricultural aircraft impacted the terrain during the downwind takeoff/initial climb to the south from the wet and soft grass airstrip (2,600 feet). The operator reported the winds were from the north at 15 knots. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported on the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Mar 1999 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N8742H, at Gillett, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during the downwind departure. Factors were the tailwind and the wet soft grass airstrip.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00324. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.