On August 10, 1988, a Luscombe 8A (registration N2232K) was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A pre-existing crack in the right main landing gear leg resulted in complete fracture during takeoff, which caused the brake to lock and the aircraft to flip over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff from a grassy area beside a paved runway, an aircraft suddenly nosed over after the tail was raised. Investigation revealed a pre-existing crack in the right main landing gear leg that caused brake lock-up and flipping.
Accident Summary
The aircraft was taking off from a hard-packed grassy area adjacent to a paved runway. A 12-knot headwind was reported. After the tail was raised, the aircraft had traveled 900 feet from the start of the roll when it suddenly nosed over. The aircraft came to rest inverted.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the broken right main landing gear leg showed evidence of a pre-existing crack that extended around three-quarters of the leg. The remaining quarter was a fresh break. According to an FAA Operations Inspector who participated in the investigation, the complete fracture of the leg caused the shaft to extend. This extension applied the mechanical brakes to the right wheel, locking it. The locked brake resulted in the aircraft flipping onto its back.
Probable cause
A pre-existing crack in the right main landing gear leg resulted in complete fracture during takeoff, which caused the brake to lock and the aircraft to flip over.
What happened in the 10 Aug 1988 Luscombe 8A accident near Plymouth, MA?
During takeoff from a grassy area beside a paved runway, an aircraft suddenly nosed over after the tail was raised. Investigation revealed a pre-existing crack in the right main landing gear leg that caused brake lock-up and flipping.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Aug 1988 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N2232K, at Plymouth, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A pre-existing crack in the right main landing gear leg resulted in complete fracture during takeoff, which caused the brake to lock and the aircraft to flip over.
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