On July 11, 2007, a Grumman G-164B (registration N8066K) operated by Swiffton Agviation was involved in an aviation accident near Alicia, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Factors associated with the accident were the low altitude at which the loss of power occurred and the flooded rice field in which the airplane was landed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft performing aerial application experienced an engine power loss after a pop sound, leading to an off-airport landing in a flooded rice field where it hydroplaned and ground looped. The cause of the power loss remains undetermined.
Incident Summary
During an aerial application flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power while the pilot was pulling up and turning after completing the first spray pass. The pilot heard a "pop" sound coincident with the power loss. He was able to clear a slough ahead and executed an off-airport landing in a flooded rice field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft hydroplaned and subsequently ground looped.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that after the initial spray pass, as he initiated a pull-up and turn, a distinct "pop" was heard, and the engine lost power. He stated that he managed to clear a slough directly in front of the aircraft and then landed in a flooded rice field. The landing resulted in hydroplaning and a ground loop.
Investigation Findings
The investigation into the accident did not determine the reason for the loss of engine power. No contributing factors were identified, and the exact cause of the power loss remains unknown.