Pilot Debrief

Grumman-Schweizer G-164C near De Witt, AR — 2008-05-05

Final reportDEN08CA089
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Date
2008-05-05
Location
De Witt, AR, USA
Airport
5M1
Aircraft
Grumman-Schweizer G-164C
Registration
N6671K
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to attempt to close the canopy in flight, and his diverted attention resulting in the airplane impacting the terrain. Contributing to the accident was the excessively worn canopy latch.

NTSB narrative

Shortly after initial takeoff for an aerial application flight, the airplane's canopy opened. At an altitude of approximately 300 feet above the ground the commercial pilot pulled the throttle back while attempting to close the canopy. After unsuccessfully trying to close the canopy, the pilot pushed the throttle back up but the engine did not respond fast enough to prevent the airplane from impacting the ground. Examination of the airplane revealed a bent firewall and both main landing gear were torn from the airplane. The canopy latch showed excessive wear and lacked any lubrication.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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