Casualties unknown

1989-06-06: Aeronca 15AC (N1003H) — Konrad J. Jockus — Plainwell, MI

Plainwell, MI, US

On June 6, 1989, an Aeronca 15AC (registration N1003H) operated by Konrad J. Jockus was involved in an aviation accident near Plainwell, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO FLY THE AIRPLANE WHICH HAD NOT BEEN PROPERLY MAINTAINED WHICH RESULTED IN THE FUEL SYSTEM BLOCKAGE. 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

An airplane was substantially damaged when its engine lost power immediately after takeoff. The aircraft struck the ground with its left wing and cartwheeled to a stop. The pilot had filled a fuel tank with auto fuel without the required STC.

Incident Overview

An airplane sustained substantial damage during an accident that occurred shortly after takeoff. According to the pilot's report, the engine lost power immediately after the aircraft became airborne. The airplane subsequently struck the ground with its left wing and cartwheeled to a stop.

Pilot Actions

The pilot stated that he had been preparing the airplane for its annual inspection. Prior to the flight, he filled one of the previously empty fuel tanks with auto fuel. After running the engine, he decided to proceed with the takeoff.

Fuel and Certification

The airplane was not equipped with a proper Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the use of auto fuel. The pilot acknowledged that the fuel used was auto fuel, which did not have the required approval for that specific aircraft.

Aircraft Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. No further details regarding the extent of damage or other consequences were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28514. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.