On September 27, 2001, a Grumman-schweizer G-164A (registration N9925) was involved in an aviation accident near Parowan, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed which resulted in an inadvertent stall/mush into terrain. Contributing factors were the pilot's diverted attention, the rising terrain, and the high density altitude weather condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural application pass, the pilot applied full power after spotting rising terrain, but the airplane lost airspeed and impacted a ravine. Density altitude was calculated at 9,736 feet.
Incident Overview
The pilot reported completing an application pass and turning to look for a flagman. Upon noticing rising terrain ahead, the pilot immediately applied full power. The airplane subsequently lost airspeed and the pilot was unable to increase the climb rate. The airplane struck the ground in a rough ravine.
Damage Assessment
Impact damage included a bent left wing spar and wrinkled fuselage. No other damage is noted in the source.
Environmental Conditions
The calculated density altitude at the time was 9,736 feet. No other weather or environmental details are provided.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that the loss of airspeed followed the application of full power, and that the airplane could not climb sufficiently to clear the rising terrain. No additional statements are available.