Grumman G-164A N9723 accident near Yerington, Nevada

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while maneuvering during an aerial application flight.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that after completing a spray run he was maneuvering for another run and rolled the wings level. The airplane experienced a loss of aileron control and settled toward the ground. The pilot still had pitch control, so he lowered the nose to maintain airspeed until he was able to regain aileron control. Prior to ground impact, the pilot attempted to flare to cushion the impact. The airplane landed hard, and during the landing roll it came to a sudden stop and nosed over. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector inspected the airplane and engine on scene. Flight control continuity was established, as well as mechanical continuity of the engine; there were no mechanical anomalies found that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA270 for the full record.