On October 3, 2003, a Luscombe 8E (registration N1909K) was involved in an aviation accident near Orange City, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance from the trees while manuevering at a low altitude. A factor was the trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft was destroyed after impacting trees and terrain in a small field near farm buildings. No witnesses were present. Inspection found no pre-impact anomalies.
Accident Overview
The aircraft was destroyed following an impact with trees and terrain. The wreckage was discovered in the northwest corner of a small field, approximately 75 yards from two farm buildings and a silo. The property was owned by the pilot's father.
Wreckage and Impact Details
The destroyed aircraft was found in a near-vertical orientation, with all debris contained within a single area. Several trees located about 10 yards west of the main wreckage were missing branches at heights estimated between 10 and 40 feet above ground level.
Examination Findings
A thorough inspection of the airframe and systems revealed no pre-impact anomalies.
What happened in the 3 Oct 2003 Luscombe 8E accident near Orange City, IA?
An aircraft was destroyed after impacting trees and terrain in a small field near farm buildings. No witnesses were present. Inspection found no pre-impact anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Oct 2003 involved a Luscombe 8E, registration N1909K, at Orange City, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance from the trees while manuevering at a low altitude. A factor was the trees.
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