Casualties unknown

1997-09-27: Luscombe 8A (N1269K) — Brooklyn, MI

Brooklyn, MI, US

On September 27, 1997, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1269K) was involved in an aviation accident near Brooklyn, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to see-and-avoid the transmission wires (inadequate visual lookout, and failing to maintain sufficient altitude and clearance from the obstruction). 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

An airplane struck high tension powerlines while approaching runway 19 at Shamrock Field in Brooklyn, Michigan, after the pilot continued an approach following a go-around by another aircraft.

Accident Sequence

On the day of the accident, a pilot was part of a group of four pilots flying their airplanes to various airports. The group departed in loose formation with each airplane maintaining 1 to 1.5 miles of separation. They were in communication via their airplane radios and planned to refuel at Shamrock Field in Brooklyn, Michigan.

The first airplane to arrive made an approach to runway 1. The pilot of that airplane reported seeing the accident airplane turning from base leg to final for runway 19, and noted that the accident airplane was low on the horizon. The airplane landing on runway 1 bounced on touchdown, prompting the pilot to execute a go-around. The accident pilot acknowledged radio calls regarding the go-around but continued the approach for landing.

During the approach, the accident airplane impacted high tension powerline wires located approximately 1,490 feet from the approach end of runway 19. The powerline towers were about 110 feet high.

Investigation

Examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies with either the airframe or the engine. No other contributing factors were identified in the source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08824. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.