Casualties unknown

1990-05-17: Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (N2628H) — Searcy, AR

Searcy, AR, US

On May 17, 1990, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N2628H) was involved in an aviation accident near Searcy, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the emergency landing, which resulted in the aircraft striking an embankment, while under the influence of alcohol and with fuel system contamination present. 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

A pilot experienced sudden engine power loss while flying locally and attempted an emergency landing on a roadway in a rice field, resulting in damage to the aircraft.

What happened

The pilot was conducting local flight operations when the engine suddenly lost power. In response to the mechanical failure, he initiated an emergency landing procedure targeting a roadway situated within the center of a rice field. During the final phase of the landing attempt, the aircraft impacted an embankment along the roadway.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the aircraft revealed significant contamination within the fuel system. Investigators found that both the fuel strainer and the broader fuel system contained mud and water, which likely contributed to the engine's power loss.

Additionally, a toxicology test was performed on the pilot following the incident. The results indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.18%, which is well above the legal limit for operating an aircraft.

Findings

The primary factors leading to the accident included the contamination of the fuel system by mud and water, which caused the engine to lose power. Furthermore, the pilot's impairment due to alcohol consumption was a significant contributing factor to the unsafe landing outcome.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the emergency landing, which resulted in the aircraft striking an embankment, while under the influence of alcohol and with fuel system contamination present.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23239. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.