On December 7, 1982, an Aeronca 11AC (registration N3809E) operated by David Pearsall was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of directional control due to strong gusting left crosswinds during landing, which lifted the left wing and caused the aircraft to depart the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing in strong gusting left crosswinds, a wind gust lifted the aircraft's left wing, causing loss of directional control and departure from the runway.
What happened
The flight was conducting a three-point landing when it encountered strong, gusting left crosswinds. As the aircraft touched down, a sudden gust of wind lifted the left wing, resulting in an immediate loss of directional control. Unable to maintain the runway centerline, the aircraft veered off the right side of the paved surface.
The aircraft continued its uncontrolled path until it came to rest at the bottom of a grassy slope adjacent to the runway. Upon inspection, the aircraft sustained only minor damage. No injuries were reported among those on board.
Probable cause
Loss of directional control due to strong gusting left crosswinds during landing, which lifted the left wing and caused the aircraft to depart the runway.
What happened in the 7 Dec 1982 Aeronca 11AC accident near Monticello, NY?
During a landing in strong gusting left crosswinds, a wind gust lifted the aircraft's left wing, causing loss of directional control and departure from the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Dec 1982 involved an Aeronca 11AC, registration N3809E, operated by David Pearsall, at Monticello, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of directional control due to strong gusting left crosswinds during landing, which lifted the left wing and caused the aircraft to depart the runway.
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