Probable cause
Total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was performing an aerial application flight when the engine made a popping noise and began to vibrate. The airplane slowed and the pilot initiated a turn toward a nearby runway. The engine subsequently lost total power and the airplane impacted terrain, where it nosed over and came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage. The operator reported that the engine was sent to a repair and overhaul facility following the accident and that no anomalies were found that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR18LA189 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 9, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Colusa, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Grumman G164B
- N-number
- N6696K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.