On October 26, 1991, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N70548) operated by Richard J. Bouey was involved in an aviation accident near Manchester, VT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT PREFLIGHT. A FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF FLIGHT EXPERIENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot noticed engine smoke, made a precautionary landing, and tightened a loose oil cap. After takeoff, smoke reappeared, leading to a forced landing in a field and a collision with trees.
Incident Sequence
According to a statement from the pilot, he was flying at cruise altitude when smoke began emanating from the engine. He performed a precautionary landing and discovered that the oil cap was loose. The pilot reported that he tightened the cap and checked the oil level. Shortly after taking off again, at approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine began to smoke once more. The pilot attempted a forced landing in a field but was too low to reach the intended landing site, resulting in a collision with trees during the descent.
Post-Accident Examination
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) personnel examined the wreckage and found that the oil cap was open. They reinstalled the cap and determined that there were no discrepancies with the seal; the cap had a positive lock when closed. At the time of the accident, the pilot had accumulated a total of 85 flight hours.
What happened in the 26 Oct 1991 Piper J3C-65 accident near Manchester, VT?
A pilot noticed engine smoke, made a precautionary landing, and tightened a loose oil cap. After takeoff, smoke reappeared, leading to a forced landing in a field and a collision with trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Oct 1991 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N70548, operated by Richard J. Bouey, at Manchester, VT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT PREFLIGHT. A FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF FLIGHT EXPERIENCE.
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