Casualties unknown

1983-02-20: Luscombe 8A (N2975K) — Jackson, MS

Jackson, MS, US

On February 20, 1983, a Luscombe 8A (registration N2975K) was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot diverted to Jackson, MS, after failing to refuel and encountering runway light issues. Engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion on final approach; during night landing, the aircraft nosed over after hitting a mud hole.

Pilot Intentions and Diversions

The pilot planned to refuel at Starkville, Mississippi, but found the fixed-base operator (FBO) closed. He then continued to his intended destination of Raymond, Mississippi, but was unable to activate the runway lights there. As a result, he diverted to Jackson, Mississippi.

Fuel Situation

While en route to Jackson, the pilot realized the aircraft was low on fuel, but he did not consider the situation critical. However, while turning onto final approach at Jackson, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot was unable to reach the runway.

Forced Landing

In response to the engine failure, the pilot aligned the aircraft with the right side of the approach lights and executed a soft field approach. During the night landing, the left main landing gear struck a mud hole, causing the aircraft to nose over.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage from the nose-over. No injuries were reported in the source.

Probable cause

The engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42135. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.