On June 12, 1982, a Luscombe 8A (registration N2013B) operated by Donald C. Sprankle was involved in an aviation accident near Delano, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the engine lost power. While attempting a forced landing on a highway, the pilot avoided powerlines but struck a truck. The pilot was seriously injured; investigation found stiff fuel selector valves and non-standard fuel system.
Accident Overview
A pilot and his daughter were conducting a cross-country flight when the engine lost power. During the forced landing approach to a highway, the pilot maneuvered under powerlines but subsequently collided with a truck. The crash site was within 5 miles of the intended destination. The pilot sustained serious injuries and had no recollection of the accident. The daughter reported that the engine sounded as if it had run out of fuel.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed fuel present in both tanks, with the right tank containing the lowest level at approximately 3 gallons. The fuel selector valves were found to be very stiff and could not be moved to select the left tank. The aircraft had been rebuilt from three different airplanes and did not incorporate the Luscombe-authorized fuel system. An operational check of the engine showed it ran normally.
What happened in the 12 Jun 1982 Luscombe 8A accident near Delano, CA?
During a cross-country flight, the engine lost power. While attempting a forced landing on a highway, the pilot avoided powerlines but struck a truck. The pilot was seriously injured; investigation found stiff fuel selector valves and non-standard fuel system.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Jun 1982 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N2013B, operated by Donald C. Sprankle, at Delano, CA.
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