On June 27, 1993, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N83429) operated by John And Carol Karlman was involved in an aviation accident near Waukesha, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a maneuver, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent spin. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducting a local sightseeing maneuver lost control during a left turn to view a campsite, resulting in a stall and subsequent spin into trees below.
What happened
The aircraft was engaged in a local sightseeing operation when the pilot initiated a left turn. The stated objective of this maneuver was to obtain an improved vantage point of a nearby camping site. During the execution of this turn, the airplane experienced an aerodynamic stall.
In response to the loss of lift, the pilot applied additional engine power in an effort to recover control. However, the aircraft subsequently entered a spin. The uncontrolled descent continued until the airplane impacted trees located below the flight path.
The investigation
Post-impact examination and pilot statements indicated that there were no reported mechanical irregularities prior to the accident. The pilot confirmed that the aircraft systems functioned normally up until the moment of the stall.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a maneuver, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent spin.