NTSB Factual Report

On September 18, 2016, about 1440 eastern daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, N75EP, experienced a loss of engine power on takeoff and subsequently collided with farm equipment near Chestertown, Maryland. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries and the airplane was substantially damaged. The aerial application flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the flight.

The pilot reported that immediately after takeoff, he heard a "pop" and felt a vibration followed by an immediate drop in engine power. The airplane was unable to maintain altitude and settled back down to the ground. The pilot was unable to stop the airplane and it struck farm equipment and a trailer before skidding to a stop. After the pilot evacuated from the airplane, it caught fire.

On September 17, 2016, the day before the accident, the airplane was performing aerial agricultural work when it experienced significant loss of engine power and the pilot made a subsequent landing in a corn field. Maintenance personnel inspected the airplane's Pratt and Whitney R1340 series engine, replaced the No. 2 cylinder, adjusted the valves, and test ran the engine. The airplane was then returned to service.

An inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration responded to the accident site and examined the wreckage. The fuselage was consumed by the postimpact fire and there was significant fire damage to the engine. In addition, the top of the No. 3 cylinder was fractured and separated near the cylinder head.

The airplane was placed in secured storage for additional inspection.