GULFSTREAM SCHWEIZER A/C CORP GULFSTREAM AM G 164C near Beech Grove, AR — 2014-06-19

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight planning, which resulted in his attempt to take off with insufficient climb performance to climb out of ground effect in the high-density altitude conditions.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the airplane took off with a quartering tailwind of about 10 to 15 mph. The takeoff was normal; however, shortly after lifting off, the airplane began to settle back toward the ground. The pilot started to dump the fertilizer load, but the airplane subsequently descended to the ground and then hit a rice levee. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He noted that the accident might have been prevented if he had paid closer attention to the density altitude; the density altitude was calculated to be 2,205 feet, which would have increased the airplane's ground roll and decreased its climb performance.

NTSB coding

• Miscellaneous/other · Takeoff
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Density Altitude Calculationother
• FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge - Excerptother
• Weather Observationsother

Related mishaps

• ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44

  2026-07-20 · Emerson, IA

• BELL 47G-2

  2026-06-01 · Mettler, CA

• VANS RV4

  2026-05-13 · Conroe, TX

• CESSNA 172

  2026-01-07 · San Marcos, TX

• ELA ELA10

  2025-12-23 · Morris, IL

• MARK O TREIDEL American Ranger AR-1

  2025-12-16 · Denver, CO