Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Forces Hard Landing and Nosedown (N1212B)

Haltom City, TX, US

On December 7, 2001, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1212B) was involved in an aviation accident near Haltom City, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inability of investigators to determine the cause of the engine power loss during level flight. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced an unexplained engine failure during level flight at 1,300 feet AGL. Emergency landing attempts in a field resulted in a hard touchdown and the aircraft nosing over.

What happened

The pilot was operating the aircraft in level flight conditions at an altitude of approximately 1,300 feet above ground level (AGL). This phase of flight lasted for about 10 minutes before the engine suddenly lost power without any prior warning or indication. The pilot immediately attempted various procedures to restore engine power, but these efforts were unsuccessful.

With no option to return to the departure airport or reach a suitable alternate runway, the pilot elected to perform an emergency landing in a nearby open field. During the approach and touchdown, the airplane impacted the ground with significant force. The impact caused the aircraft to nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

The investigation

Investigative personnel examined the wreckage and reviewed the flight data to determine the cause of the power loss. Despite a thorough examination, the specific mechanical or operational reason for the engine failure could not be determined from the available evidence.

Probable cause

The inability of investigators to determine the cause of the engine power loss during level flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Dec 2001 Luscombe 8A accident near Haltom City, TX?

A pilot experienced an unexplained engine failure during level flight at 1,300 feet AGL. Emergency landing attempts in a field resulted in a hard touchdown and the aircraft nosing over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Dec 2001 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N1212B, at Haltom City, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inability of investigators to determine the cause of the engine power loss during level flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011214X02399. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.