On August 19, 1990, a Luscombe 8A (registration N71330) operated by Semrad, James V. was involved in an aviation accident near Tucson, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER PITCH ATTITUDE AND AIRSPEED TO AVOID AN AERODYNAMIC STALL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Luscombe 8A lost control and collided with trees while performing a low pass to pinpoint a missing radio-controlled model airplane. The pilot reported stalling into a grove of mesquite trees during the final turn.
Accident Narrative
A Luscombe 8A aircraft experienced a loss of control and collided with trees. According to the pilot, he and a passenger were conducting an aerial search for the passenger's missing radio-controlled model airplane. The model was spotted from an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet above ground level. The pilot then began making a low pass to pinpoint the exact location of the model airplane.
During the maneuver, the pilot stated, "When I made the final turn to fly by the model I stalled into a grove of mesquite trees." The aircraft descended and struck a tree with its right wing. Following the impact, the aircraft rotated 180 degrees and struck the ground tail first.
What happened in the 19 Aug 1990 Luscombe 8A accident near Tucson, AZ?
A Luscombe 8A lost control and collided with trees while performing a low pass to pinpoint a missing radio-controlled model airplane. The pilot reported stalling into a grove of mesquite trees during the final turn.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Aug 1990 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N71330, operated by Semrad, James V., at Tucson, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER PITCH ATTITUDE AND AIRSPEED TO AVOID AN AERODYNAMIC STALL.
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