Luscombe 8A N2009B accident near Churchville, Maryland

Probable cause

The pilot's improper reduction of the fuel mixture while the airplane was descending on the final leg of the traffic pattern, which resulted in a total loss of engine power and subsequent aerodynamic stall.

NTSB analysis

According to the commercial pilot, while the airplane was descending on the final leg of the traffic pattern after the personal flight, he reduced the fuel mixture, and the engine then lost total power. The pilot was unable to regain engine power, and the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall and subsequently impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings, vertical stabilizer, and fuselage.

A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The Engine Operator's Manual stated that the mixture must be in the "full rich" position during the descent. It is likely that the pilot's reduction of the fuel mixture during the descent resulted in the loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA15LA228 for the full record.