Accident Overview
On July 9, 2018, at approximately 1100 Pacific daylight time, a Grumman G-164B airplane (registration N6696K) was substantially damaged in an accident near Colusa, California. The commercial pilot, operating under 14 CFR Part 137 for aerial application, was not injured.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that while approaching a field to begin an application pass, the engine emitted a popping noise and began to vibrate. The airplane decelerated, prompting the pilot to initiate a turn toward a nearby runway. As speed continued to decrease, the pilot added power. The vibration intensified, and the engine subsequently lost all power. The airplane then impacted terrain and came to rest inverted.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the wings and empennage.
Post-Accident Examination
The operator stated that the engine was sent to a repair and overhaul facility after the accident. Inspection revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.