Accident Overview
On July 30, 2022, at approximately 1140 eastern daylight time, a Luscombe 8A aircraft, registration N1358K, was substantially damaged in an accident at Hiserts Airpark, Inc. (3NY7), Ephratah, New York. The airline transport pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the preflight inspection and engine start were uneventful. He departed on runway 27, a 2,200-foot-long turf runway, with plans to remain in the airport traffic pattern. During the initial climb, at approximately 50 feet above ground level, the engine abruptly lost power, and the propeller continued to windmill. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Due to the low altitude, he only had time to switch fuel tanks and apply carburetor heat, neither of which restored engine power. The airplane then touched down hard at the end of the runway before coming to rest.
Damage and Examination
Examination of the wreckage confirmed substantial damage. The right wingtip was crushed, both landing gear collapsed, and the fuselage and engine compartment sustained impact damage, which also destroyed the gascolator. Investigators found adequate fuel on board and the fuel vents were free of obstructions. No mechanical engine anomalies were discovered during the examination.
Engine Details
The original Continental A-65-8 engine had been replaced with an updated C85 model, which was installed in 2015. The replacement engine had been overhauled approximately 7 flight hours before the accident.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions at the time of the accident were conducive for the formation of carburetor ice at glide power settings but not at takeoff power settings. No preimpact mechanical anomalies were observed that would have contributed to the loss of engine power.