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Casualties unknown

Dirt Dauber Nest in Fuel Cap Vent Causes Engine Failure During Landing (N25236)

Burleson, TX, US

On July 23, 1988, a Luscombe 8A (registration N25236) operated by Bransom, Robert M. was involved in an aviation accident near Burleson, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain engine power during flight, which resulted from an obstruction in the fuel cap vent caused by a dirt dauber nest. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced engine failure during a forced landing after the pilot applied power on downwind. The cause was traced to a dirt dauber nest obstructing the fuel cap vent.

What happened

The aircraft was operating on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern when the pilot initiated a sequence of actions that led to an engine malfunction. Specifically, the pilot pulled the carburetor heat lever and reduced the engine revolutions per minute (RPM). Upon attempting to reapply power for the approach or go-around, the engine failed to respond as expected.

Despite the loss of power, the pilot managed to execute a forced landing back at the airport. During this emergency maneuver, the aircraft made contact with the airport boundary fence. The impact resulted in damage to the right wing and the tailwheel assembly.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system components to determine the root cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed a significant obstruction within the fuel cap vent area. Specifically, a nest constructed by a dirt dauber was found lodged in the vent.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain engine power during flight, which resulted from an obstruction in the fuel cap vent caused by a dirt dauber nest.
Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Jul 1988 Luscombe 8A accident near Burleson, TX?

An aircraft experienced engine failure during a forced landing after the pilot applied power on downwind. The cause was traced to a dirt dauber nest obstructing the fuel cap vent.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Jul 1988 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N25236, operated by Bransom, Robert M., at Burleson, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain engine power during flight, which resulted from an obstruction in the fuel cap vent caused by a dirt dauber nest.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26226. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.