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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Low Pass Over Wheat Field (N2154K)

Sebewaing, MI, US

On June 30, 1989, a Luscombe 8A (registration N2154K) operated by Koch, Howard was involved in an aviation accident near Sebewaing, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT'S INATTENTIVE AIRCRAFT HANDLING WHICH RESULTED IN HIS FAILURE TO DETECT AND PREVENT THE AIRCRAFT'S DESCENT INTO THE WHEAT FIELD. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a local flight, a 64-year-old pilot flew low over a wheat field to inspect crops. The main landing gear caught in the wheat, causing the aircraft to strike the ground and come to rest upside down. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical issues.

Accident Summary

During a local flight with his grandson, a 64-year-old pilot flew at low altitude over a wheat field to examine the crop. The aircraft descended to a point where the main landing gear became entangled in the top of the wheat. Subsequently, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 150 feet from the initial point of contact with the wheat, nosed over, and came to rest upside down.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there was no pre-impact problem with the aircraft, indicating that the incident was not caused by a mechanical failure.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage from the impact and inversion. The pilot and his grandson were involved in the accident, but the report does not specify injuries or fatalities.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 1989 Luscombe 8A accident near Sebewaing, MI?

During a local flight, a 64-year-old pilot flew low over a wheat field to inspect crops. The main landing gear caught in the wheat, causing the aircraft to strike the ground and come to rest upside down. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 1989 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N2154K, operated by Koch, Howard, at Sebewaing, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

PILOT'S INATTENTIVE AIRCRAFT HANDLING WHICH RESULTED IN HIS FAILURE TO DETECT AND PREVENT THE AIRCRAFT'S DESCENT INTO THE WHEAT FIELD.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28541. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.