On October 28, 1989, a Boeing B75N (registration N68972) was involved in an aviation accident near Willimantic, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INADVERTENT STALL CLEARING TREES DURING A FORCED LANDING FOLLOWING A POWER LOSS DUE TO A FUEL LINE SEPARATING FROM THE CARBURETOR AND FUEL STARVATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Boeing Model 75 Stearman suffered a power loss near an airport. While attempting to return for landing, the pilot entered an inadvertent stall while maneuvering to lose altitude.
Incident Summary
A Boeing Model 75 Stearman was operating on a local flight when a loss of engine power occurred approximately one mile from the airport. The pilot attempted to return to the airport for a landing on the downwind leg. However, the aircraft was too high on approach. To reduce altitude, the pilot executed a series of turns and slips. During these maneuvers, the aircraft entered an inadvertent stall, clearing trees during the stall.
Post-Crash Examination
After the accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed that a brass fitting for the fuel line leading into the carburetor was cracked and had separated. No other anomalies were reported in the inspection.
Key Details
Aircraft Model: Boeing Model 75 Stearman
Flight Phase: Local flight, approach
Event: Power loss, stall during descent maneuvers
Finding: Cracked and separated brass fuel line fitting at the carburetor