Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Crashes Following Engine Power Loss During Spray Operation (N553Y)

Georgetown, MN, US

On August 9, 2005, a Grumman G-164 (registration N553Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Georgetown, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The reported loss of engine power for undetermined reasons while maneuvering and the low altitude of the operation. Related factors were the unsuitable terrain encountered by the pilot, and trees. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural aircraft lost all engine power while conducting an aerial application mission. The pilot attempted a forced landing but impacted a powerline pole, trees, and terrain. Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies.

What happened

During an aerial application mission, the agricultural aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power. In response to the emergency, the pilot attempted to execute a forced landing. The aircraft subsequently impacted a powerline pole, followed by trees and terrain.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators conducted an inspection of the aircraft's engine. The examination revealed no anomalies associated with the reported loss of engine power.

Findings

The mechanical inspection of the engine showed no evidence of pre-impact failure or malfunction that would explain the power loss.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Aug 2005 Grumman G-164 accident near Georgetown, MN?

An agricultural aircraft lost all engine power while conducting an aerial application mission. The pilot attempted a forced landing but impacted a powerline pole, trees, and terrain. Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Aug 2005 involved a Grumman G-164, registration N553Y, at Georgetown, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The reported loss of engine power for undetermined reasons while maneuvering and the low altitude of the operation. Related factors were the unsuitable terrain encountered by the pilot, and trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050913X01444. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.