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Casualties unknown

Forced Landing Due to Disconnected Engine Mixture Control (N225C)

Chadron, NE, US

On September 22, 1982, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N225C) operated by Tom Bernard was involved in an aviation accident near Chadron, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly inspect the aircraft prior to flight, which resulted in the mixture control being disconnected from the carburetor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of power shortly after takeoff, necessitating an emergency landing in a nearby field. Investigation revealed the engine mixture control was completely detached from the carburetor.

What happened

Shortly after departure, the pilot encountered a complete loss of engine power. Unable to maintain altitude or reach the airport, the pilot executed a forced landing in a field located approximately one mile from the departure point.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft's engine and discovered a critical mechanical failure. The mixture control lever was found to be completely disconnected from the carburetor. Furthermore, the internal mechanism of the carburetor was positioned only 3/8 of an inch away from the idle cutoff position, indicating it had not been set for takeoff power.

Findings

The primary factor leading to the accident was the improper preflight inspection that allowed the mixture control to remain detached. This mechanical separation prevented the engine from receiving the necessary fuel-air mixture for operation, resulting in a total loss of thrust during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to properly inspect the aircraft prior to flight, which resulted in the mixture control being disconnected from the carburetor.
Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Sept 1982 Stinson 108-2 accident near Chadron, NE?

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of power shortly after takeoff, necessitating an emergency landing in a nearby field. Investigation revealed the engine mixture control was completely detached from the carburetor.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Sept 1982 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N225C, operated by Tom Bernard, at Chadron, NE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to properly inspect the aircraft prior to flight, which resulted in the mixture control being disconnected from the carburetor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04969. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.