Engine Power Loss After Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing in Tailwheel Airplane (N84935)

Q: What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-08-30 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N84935, operated by Andover Flight Academy, at Andover, NJ.

On August 30, 1995, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N84935) operated by Andover Flight Academy was involved in an aviation accident near Andover, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's inadequate preflight which failed to detect an inadequate fuel supply which subsequently resulted in fuel exhaustion and the loss of engine power. 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 API Editorial standards

A CFI and private pilot experienced an engine power loss at 400 feet during a tailwheel checkout. The CFI forced landed atop trees after failing to reach an open field. Less than 2 quarts of fuel were found in the system.

Accident Overview

During a tailwheel airplane checkout, a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a private pilot encountered a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff at an altitude of approximately 400 feet. The CFI assumed control of the airplane and attempted to reach an open field for a forced landing, but the airplane landed atop trees short of the intended landing area.

Post-Accident Examination

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the airplane following the accident. An inspection of the fuel system revealed that less than two quarts of fuel were drained from the system.

Pilot Statements

The CFI reported that during the preflight inspection, the fuel gauge indicated a one-quarter full tank. Additionally, he stated that he visually checked the fuel level and determined that the fuel tank, which was eight inches deep, contained fuel to a depth of two inches.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained damage from the forced landing onto the trees.

Occupants

The airplane was occupied by the CFI and the private pilot receiving the tailwheel checkout.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

1995-08-30: Aeronca 7AC (N84935) — Andover Flight Academy — Andover, NJ