On May 7, 1999, a Grumman G-164A (registration N8875H) was involved in an aviation accident near Maxwell, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the pilot to attain and maintain the proper reference climb airspeed during the rotation and initial climb, which resulted in a stall/mush condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After the 18th flight of the day, a fully loaded agricultural airplane settled to the ground from 20 feet and the pilot could not stop the descent. The engine was at full power with no mechanical issues, and the pilot reported shifting winds.
Incident Overview
A pilot conducting an agricultural operation reported that during the 18th flight of the day, the airplane settled shortly after takeoff and impacted the ground. The airplane was carrying a full load of seed at the time.
Sequence of Events
After lifting off, the airplane reached an altitude of about 20 feet above ground level. The airplane then began to settle, and the pilot was unable to arrest the descent before the airplane struck the ground.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the engine was developing full power and that there were no mechanical abnormalities prior to impact. The pilot speculated that the winds might have shifted from a headwind to a crosswind during the takeoff. Reported winds at the accident site were from the north at 2 to 3 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 May 1999 Grumman G-164A accident near Maxwell, CA?
After the 18th flight of the day, a fully loaded agricultural airplane settled to the ground from 20 feet and the pilot could not stop the descent. The engine was at full power with no mechanical issues, and the pilot reported shifting winds.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 May 1999 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N8875H, at Maxwell, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the pilot to attain and maintain the proper reference climb airspeed during the rotation and initial climb, which resulted in a stall/mush condition.
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