On February 27, 1982, an Aeronca 11AC (registration N9361E) operated by Glenn A. Farr was involved in an aviation accident near Weldon, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise, engine roughness prompted a precautionary landing on a dirt road. After touchdown, the aircraft hit a bump, disconnecting steering springs, leading to loss of directional control and collision with a tree and fence.
Incident Summary
The pilot reported that while cruising, the engine began running rough, necessitating a precautionary landing. The aircraft touched down on a dirt road. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a bump, which caused the steering springs to disconnect. Subsequently, the pilot lost directional control, and the aircraft veered left, striking a tree and a fence on the left side of the road.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses provided additional context. They stated that shortly before the aircraft landed, ground personnel had advised bystanders that an aircraft would be landing on the road. Furthermore, witnesses indicated that the aircraft had previously landed on the same road to undergo maintenance at a local garage.