On February 17, 2004, a Grumman-schweizer G-164B (registration N6774K) operated by Trinkle And Boys Agricultural Flying Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Tracy, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during cruise flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural flight, engine power fluctuated and was lost. The pilot attempted a forced landing but struck a dirt berm, nosing over. A ground fire destroyed the aircraft.
Incident Overview
While cruising between airstrips during an agricultural flight, the engine experienced power fluctuations. Subsequently, engine power was lost entirely. The pilot initiated a forced landing into a nearby field. During the approach, the airplane impacted a dirt berm and nosed over in the soft terrain. Following the impact, a ground fire erupted and destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
The event that precipitated the loss of engine power was not ascertained because of the fire damage to the airplane. The investigation could not determine the root cause due to the destruction of critical components.