On December 3, 1988, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2379V) operated by Travel Air was involved in an aviation accident near Tomball, TX. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An instructor and a low-time student were performing touch-and-go landings when the instructor reported a loss of engine power and conducted a forced landing. The student survived with no memory of the flight. Investigation found no engine or fuel system issues, but the propeller had been loose before impact.
Accident Overview
The aircraft was being used for touch-and-go landings by an instructor and a low-time student. While on a base leg to land to the south, the instructor informed the tower that she had lost the engine and was going down. No witnesses observed the accident. The student survived but had no recollection of the flight.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine and fuel system revealed no problems that would have prevented the engine from producing sufficient power to avoid a forced landing. The propeller separated from the crankshaft upon impact. Marks on the six propeller flange bushings indicated the propeller had been loose for an undetermined period before the accident. The flange bushings had been overstressed, causing the flanged ends to separate from the bushings. The bushings came out of the crankshaft at the moment of impact. The field where the aircraft came to rest was surrounded by trees.
What happened in the 3 Dec 1988 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Tomball, TX?
An instructor and a low-time student were performing touch-and-go landings when the instructor reported a loss of engine power and conducted a forced landing. The student survived with no memory of the flight. Investigation found no engine or fuel system issues, but the propeller had been loose before impact.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Dec 1988 Piper PA-38-112 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Dec 1988 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2379V, operated by Travel Air, at Tomball, TX.
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