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
What happened in the 28 Oct 1989 Boeing B75N accident near Willimantic, ME?
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.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Oct 1989 involved a Boeing B75N, registration N68972, at Willimantic, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
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.
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