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Engine Power Loss Forces Highway Landing, Aircraft Strikes Tree and Embankment (N1322B)

Paxson, AK, US

On May 27, 1998, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1322B) was involved in an aviation accident near Paxson, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power due to a failure of the engine's number 3 intake valve. A factor in the accident was the unsuitable terrain for a forced landing. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot made a forced landing on a highway after a partial engine power loss; during the landing roll, the aircraft's right wing hit a tree, causing a turn into an embankment, substantially damaging the wings and fuselage.

Incident Sequence

The pilot reported a partial loss of engine power while in flight. After the initial power loss, he attempted to divert to an alternate airport for a landing. However, the engine continued to lose power, and the airplane was no longer able to maintain altitude. The pilot selected a portion of a highway as an emergency landing area. During the landing roll, the right wing struck an overhanging tree, causing the airplane to turn to the right and subsequently strike an embankment.

Damage

The airplane's wings and fuselage sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact with the tree and embankment.

Engine Inspection

A postaccident inspection of the engine revealed a broken intake valve on the number 3 cylinder, which likely contributed to the loss of engine power.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 May 1998 Luscombe 8A accident near Paxson, AK?

A pilot made a forced landing on a highway after a partial engine power loss; during the landing roll, the aircraft's right wing hit a tree, causing a turn into an embankment, substantially damaging the wings and fuselage.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 May 1998 Luscombe 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 May 1998 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N1322B, at Paxson, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A loss of engine power due to a failure of the engine's number 3 intake valve. A factor in the accident was the unsuitable terrain for a forced landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09978. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.