Accident Overview
On August 3, 2020, at approximately 1400 central daylight time, a Grumman G164 agricultural airplane, registration N8105K, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Alicia, Arkansas. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, suffered serious injuries. The aircraft was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight at the time.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff from a private airstrip, a side panel came loose on the right side of the airplane. The pilot experienced difficulties controlling the aircraft, which included an un-commanded pitch up. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing into a flooded rice field. The forced landing resulted in damage to both wings and the fuselage.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the fasteners securing the side panel to the airframe exhibited significant wear. This wear allowed the panel to become detached during flight. Additionally, the leading edge of the elevator was found to be rusted and covered with duct tape.