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Engine Gearbox Failure Leads to Forced Landing and Tree Collision During Aerial Application (N3629T)

Bay Springs, MS, US

On March 19, 1999, a Schweizer G-164B (registration N3629T) was involved in an aviation accident near Bay Springs, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Internal gearbox failure and bearing failure at the intermediate gear, leading to loss of engine power. 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

While maneuvering at low altitude for chemical spraying, the engine lost power due to an internal gearbox failure. The pilot attempted a forced landing, but the airplane struck trees.

Accident Summary

During an agricultural spraying operation, the pilot was maneuvering at low altitude over a stand of trees when the engine unexpectedly lost power. The pilot selected an area for an off-airport forced landing. During the landing attempt, the airplane collided with trees.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination of the engine revealed an internal gearbox failure. Metal debris was found in the output housing at the forward scavenge strainer. Additionally, bearing remains were recovered from the gearbox assembly. Inspection of the fuel control drive train showed that the intermediate gear had uncoupled from the dual idler gear, accompanied by a bearing failure at the intermediate gear. The oil filter and chip detector were removed and found to be contaminated with metal particles.

The findings indicate that the loss of engine power resulted from these mechanical failures within the gearbox and fuel control drive train.

Probable cause

Internal gearbox failure and bearing failure at the intermediate gear, leading to loss of engine power.
Engine failureFuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Mar 1999 Schweizer G-164B accident near Bay Springs, MS?

While maneuvering at low altitude for chemical spraying, the engine lost power due to an internal gearbox failure. The pilot attempted a forced landing, but the airplane struck trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Mar 1999 involved a Schweizer G-164B, registration N3629T, at Bay Springs, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Internal gearbox failure and bearing failure at the intermediate gear, leading to loss of engine power.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00259. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.