Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Factors were the low altitude at which the power loss occurred and the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while flying eastbound, 30 feet above ground level, the engine 'suddenly lost power followed by loud backfiring.' he further reported that, 'due to trees to the east and south and low altitude' he was 'unable to set up' properly for an emergency landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 17, 1995, approximately 0945 central daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, N4562, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss of engine power near Cash, Arkansas. The commercial pilot was not injured. The agricultural airplane, owned and operated by Crider Flying Service, was operating under 14 CFR Part 137 when the accident occurred. The aerial application flight originated from a private airstrip at 0900 where it had loaded fertilizer. A flight plan was not filed and visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The pilot reported that, while flying eastbound at 30 feet above ground level, the airplane "suddenly lost power followed by loud backfiring." He further reported that, due to trees located to the east and south, and the airplane's low altitude, he was "unable to set up" properly for an emergency landing. Examination of the airplane revealed structural damage to the fuselage and both main wing spars. -