On May 27, 1998, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1322B) was involved in an aviation accident near Paxson, AK. 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.
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.