Casualties unknown

1993-08-15: Aeronca 7EC (N4306C) — Moneta, VA

Moneta, VA, US

On August 15, 1993, an Aeronca 7EC (registration N4306C) was involved in an aviation accident near Moneta, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll on runway 5, which resulted in an overrun and collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft overran the right side of runway 5 after losing directional control upon touchdown, striking trees. The pilot reported no mechanical issues and could not abort.

What happened

The flight ended in a crash following an unsuccessful landing attempt on runway 5. Upon initial contact with the pavement, the aircraft immediately began to swerve sharply toward the right side of the runway surface. The pilot attempted to maintain control but was unable to regain directional stability.

As the aircraft continued its uncontrolled path off the paved surface, it overran the right edge of the runway and collided with nearby trees. The impact resulted in significant damage to the airframe. Despite the severity of the crash, the pilot reported that there were no prior mechanical malfunctions or system failures detected before the event.

The investigation

Examination of the incident focused on the immediate circumstances surrounding the landing. The pilot stated that after the main gear touched down, the airplane immediately swerved right. He was unable to regain adequate speed to abort the landing. No mechanical malfunction was reported by the pilot.

Findings

The primary factor in this accident was the loss of directional control during the landing roll. Contributing factors included the inability to correct the swerve and the subsequent overrun of the runway environment. The absence of reported mechanical issues suggests the cause may be related to pilot technique, weather conditions, or other operational factors not detailed in the immediate narrative.

Safety message

Pilots should be aware of the critical importance of maintaining directional control immediately after touchdown. Early recognition and correction of swerves are essential to prevent runway overruns and potential collisions with obstacles.

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll on runway 5, which resulted in an overrun and collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13235. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.