On January 7, 1985, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N84096) was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While practicing off-airport landings, a pilot flying a course reversal turn experienced a 90-degree right wing bank and 70-degree nose drop. Control inputs failed to arrest the attitude; the PIC reduced throttle to idle before impact. Light variable winds and a 30-degree temperature inversion were reported.
Incident Details
The pilot-in-command (PIC) reported that the second pilot was flying the aircraft at the time of the accident. The pilots were practicing off-airport landings.
Sequence of Events
During the second takeoff, the second pilot executed a course reversal turn to land opposite the direction of takeoff. The initial turn was to the left. After completing a 90-degree left turn, while in a 270-degree right turn, the aircraft's right wing banked 90 degrees and the nose dropped 70 degrees. Control inputs were unable to arrest the aircraft's attitude. Prior to impact, the PIC retarded the throttle to idle.
Environmental Conditions
Light variable surface winds prevailed. The PIC reported that a 30-degree temperature inversion at altitude was experienced.
What happened in the 7 Jan 1985 Aeronca 7AC accident near Chandler, AZ?
While practicing off-airport landings, a pilot flying a course reversal turn experienced a 90-degree right wing bank and 70-degree nose drop. Control inputs failed to arrest the attitude; the PIC reduced throttle to idle before impact. Light variable winds and a 30-degree temperature inversion were reported.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Jan 1985 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N84096, at Chandler, AZ.
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