Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a tree while on approach to land.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during approach to land, the airplane struck a tree. Subsequently, the airplane landed hard, and the landing gear collapsed.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and front windshield.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA244 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 28, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Eunice, Louisiana
- Nearest airport
- Eunice (4R7)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Luscombe 8
- N-number
- N71261
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.