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.
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.