Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
A POWER LOSS DUE TO CRACKED ENGINE CYLINDER. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On August 10, 1994, approximately 0900 central daylight time, a Grumman G-164B, N8251K, was destroyed when it collided with trees during a forced landing near Matagorda, Texas. The airline transport-rated pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.
The following is based on a telephone conversation with the operator and the pilot/operator report. The pilot was engaged in an aerial application operation. As he made a spray pass over a rice field, the engine began backfiring and lost power. The pilot jettisoned the chemical and attempted to land on a dirt road. The airplane collided with trees as he maneuvered for landing.
According to the operator, post-accident engine examination revealed a crack in the number 4 cylinder near the exhaust valve.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# FTW94LA266