NTSB Factual Report

On September 19, 2001, approximately 0900 central daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, agricultural airplane, N73PB, struck trees during a forced landing following a partial loss of engine power near Eagle Lake, Texas. The airplane was owned and operated by Hicks Double L Flying Service of Wallis, Texas, under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137. The airplane was destroyed, and the commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local aerial application flight, and a flight plan was not filed. The flight originated from Eagle Lake, at 0845.

The pilot and operator reported that the airplane was applying fertilizer onto a peanut field. During the second turn around maneuver, the engine "coughed and lost some power." The pilot dumped 250 gallons of fertilizer; however, the airplane descended, struck trees, and impacted the ground.

The FAA inspector, who responded to the accident site, found the airplane inverted in trees and brush. The wing spars were bent. Structural damage was found throughout the airplane. The reason for the loss of engine power was undetermined.

NTSB Probable Cause

the partial loss of engine power for an undetermined reason, which resulted in an in flight collision with trees and terrain.