Primary finding
Probable cause
Inadvertent stall. Factors were the improper latching of the engine cowling by the pilot and his inadequate preflight inspection.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff initial climb, the right half of the engine cowling came loose. The pilot stated to the investigator in charge that he improperly latched the cowling on the preflight. A turn was initiated toward the airport and on a 45 degree angle to the runway the airplane stalled and impacted the terrain short of the runway.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 1, 1993, at approximately 1300 central daylight time, a Stinson 108-3 airplane, N4021C, sustained substantial damage near Osceola, Arkansas, during approach. The private pilot and passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal cross country flight. The Pilot/Operator report submitted to the Safety Board and a personal interview conducted by the investigator in charge revealed the following information. During a cross country flight a routine refueling stop was made at Osceola, Arkansas. As the air speed increased during the initial takeoff climb, the right half of the engine cowling came loose. The pilot observed the engine cowling chaffing against the windshield plexiglass. A 180 degree turn toward the airport was initiated by the pilot. During the approach, the airplane stalled and impacted the terrain short of the runway. The pilot stated that he had checked and filled the engine oil and had improperly latched the cowling during the preflight. -