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Casualties unknown

Engine Fails to Respond During Approach; Emergency Landing on Unsuitable Terrain (N66581)

Santa FE, NM, US

On August 30, 2000, an Aeronca 7BCM (registration N66581) operated by Bruce N. Barton was involved in an aviation accident near Santa FE, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The needle valve in the carburetor stuck in the closed position for unknown reasons. 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

During approach after a cross-country flight, the pilot applied power but the engine did not respond, leading to an emergency landing on soft terrain. The landing gear separated and the fuselage and wing attachments were damaged. Examination revealed a stuck carburetor needle valve.

Accident Description

While on approach to land at the conclusion of a cross-country flight, the pilot attempted to increase engine power. The engine did not respond to the throttle input. Consequently, an emergency landing was performed on soft terrain that was unsuitable for a normal landing.

Damage

During the emergency landing, the main landing gear separated from the aircraft. The underside of the fuselage was buckled. Additionally, the wing attach points near the wing root were deformed as a result of damage to the forward attachments.

Engine Examination

Subsequent examination of the engine revealed evidence that the needle valve in the carburetor had become stuck in the closed position. The reason for the needle valve sticking could not be determined.

Probable cause

The needle valve in the carburetor stuck in the closed position for unknown reasons.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 2000 Aeronca 7BCM accident near Santa FE, NM?

During approach after a cross-country flight, the pilot applied power but the engine did not respond, leading to an emergency landing on soft terrain. The landing gear separated and the fuselage and wing attachments were damaged. Examination revealed a stuck carburetor needle valve.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 2000 involved an Aeronca 7BCM, registration N66581, operated by Bruce N. Barton, at Santa FE, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The needle valve in the carburetor stuck in the closed position for unknown reasons.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21717. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.