On September 14, 1998, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N8666K) was involved in an aviation accident near Spray, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A partial loss of engine power, and the pilot's subsequent misjudgment of clearance with a transmission wire during a precautionary landing approach. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting a precautionary landing at a farm airport struck a power line and landed hard. The pilot cited possible carburetor icing, but weather data did not support that. Fuel was found to be automotive or mixed, and the pilot lacked a current flight review and medical certificate.
Accident Report
A pilot reported experiencing a rough engine during descent to his destination and attempted a precautionary landing at a farm airport. On approach to the landing area, the pilot misjudged a power line, striking it and subsequently landing hard in a farm field. The pilot stated no mechanical malfunction or failure was involved and expressed a belief that the power loss was due to carburetor icing.
Weather and Fuel Examination
Temperature and dewpoint data from the nearest weather observation station during the accident time frame did not indicate that a carburetor ice hazard existed. An FAA inspector examined the wreckage the day after the accident and found the airplane's fuel tanks nearly full of automotive or mixed automotive/aviation fuel. However, the pilot's accident report indicated he did not know how much fuel was on board at the last takeoff.
Pilot and Aircraft Documentation
The pilot had not received a required biennial flight review in approximately 11 years and did not possess a current medical certificate. Additionally, the airplane had not received any inspections in the last 4 years.
What happened in the 14 Sept 1998 Stinson 108-1 accident near Spray, OR?
A pilot attempting a precautionary landing at a farm airport struck a power line and landed hard. The pilot cited possible carburetor icing, but weather data did not support that. Fuel was found to be automotive or mixed, and the pilot lacked a current flight review and medical certificate.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Sept 1998 involved a Stinson 108-1, registration N8666K, at Spray, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A partial loss of engine power, and the pilot's subsequent misjudgment of clearance with a transmission wire during a precautionary landing approach. The reason for the power loss was not determined; however, the pilot reported that it was not of a mechanical nature. The transmission wire was a factor.
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