On July 4, 2007, a Grumman-schweizer G-164B (registration N8459K) was involved in an aviation accident near Joes, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper takeoff planning and subsequent failure to maintain aircraft control during the takeoff. Contributing factors were the high density altitude and tailwind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural airplane struck corn stalks at the end of a private dirt airstrip during initial climb after takeoff, then cartwheeled and came to rest in a field. Density altitude was calculated as 6,620 feet MSL with temperature 80°F and light northeast winds.
Accident Overview
An agricultural airplane was involved in an accident during takeoff from a private dirt airstrip. Prior to departure, the aircraft had been refueled to a maximum of 114 gallons and the hopper filled with 250 gallons of chemical (hopper capacity 335 gallons). The pilot initiated takeoff to the south.
Sequence of Events
During the initial takeoff climb, the airplane impacted corn stalks located at the end of the airstrip. Following the impact, the aircraft cartwheeled and came to rest in a field.
Environmental Conditions
The operator reported the ambient temperature was approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit with winds from the northeast at "few knots." The calculated density altitude was 6,620 feet mean sea level (MSL).