Shortly After Takeoff, The Engine Began Operating “Rough”

Location: Elton, LA Accident Number: CEN21LA072
Date & Time: December 1, 2020, 14:30 Local Registration: N48594
Aircraft: Grumman G164 Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

On December 1, 2020, about 1430 central standard time, a Grumman G164 airplane, N48594, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Elton, Louisiana. The commercial pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight.

According to the pilot, the airplane contained a full load of fertilizer and departed from the local grass strip. Shortly after takeoff, the engine began operating “rough”, and the airplane was unable to maintain a positive rate of climb.

The engine continued to not produce expected power, and the pilot needed to execute a forced landing. The airplane landed in a muddy field about ¼ mile from the grass strip, nosed over, and came to rest inverted.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov