On July 16, 1984, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1187B) was involved in an aviation accident near Madison, IN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During climbout at 150 feet, a pilot experienced an engine failure and performed an emergency landing in trees. The pilot used a mixture of 100LL and automotive fuel without an STC. No preimpact part malfunction or failure was found.
Accident Overview
The pilot of an aircraft reported that after conducting a preflight inspection and engine run-up, he took off. During climbout, at an altitude of approximately 150 feet, the pilot experienced an engine failure. He subsequently executed an emergency landing, during which the aircraft came to rest in trees.
Post-Accident Details
Following the accident, the pilot drained about 4 gallons of fuel from the aircraft. He stated that he uses a mixture of 100LL (low-lead aviation fuel) and automotive grade low lead fuel. The pilot did not possess a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the use of automotive fuel in the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of any preimpact part malfunction or failure. The engine failure's specific cause could not be determined from the available information.