Pilot Debrief

Grumman G164 near Alicia, AR — 2020-08-03

Final reportCEN20LA327
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Date
2020-08-03
Location
Alicia, AR, USA
Aircraft
Grumman G164
Registration
N8105K
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

Inadequate maintenance of panel fasteners, which led to a side panel coming loose during takeoff and the pilot having to make a subsequent forced landing to a flooded rice field when the airplane became difficult to control.

NTSB narrative

During takeoff for an aerial spray flight, the pilot noticed a side panel come loose on the right side of the airplane. When the airplane became difficult to control, the pilot elected to make a forced landing into a flooded rice field, which damaged both wings and fuselage. Examination revealed the fasteners for the side panel and airframe had significant wear, which resulted in the panel coming loose during takeoff. Inadequate maintenance allowed the airworthiness hazard to exist during takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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