On July 20, 2006, a Grumman G-164A (registration N5068) was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeview, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor associated with the accident was the low altitude at which the airplane was being operated when the loss of engine power occurred. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane nosed over following a loss of engine power during an aerial application swath run. The pilot reported reducing power as the load became lighter, but the engine was unresponsive when he attempted to add power. The airplane lost altitude, impacted the ground, and nosed over. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical failure.
Accident Summary
An airplane nosed over after experiencing a loss of engine power during an aerial application swath run. The incident occurred while the aircraft was applying fertilizer.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that as the load of fertilizer became lighter during the run, he reduced power. Subsequently, when he attempted to add power, the engine was unresponsive. The airplane immediately lost altitude, impacted the ground, and nosed over.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident inspection of the airplane failed to reveal any mechanical failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the loss of engine power. No specific cause for the engine unresponsiveness was identified.