Casualties unknown

1996-08-19: Champion 7ECA (N9542S) — Lander, WY

Lander, WY, US

On August 19, 1996, a Champion 7ECA (registration N9542S) was involved in an aviation accident near Lander, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll. Factors relating to the accident were: the variable and gusty wind conditions. 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

During touch-and-go practice in a tail-wheel airplane, a gust of wind caused the aircraft to veer, leading to a fence strike and gear collapse. No mechanical failure reported.

Accident Overview

The pilot, who had recently completed a checkout in a tail-wheel equipped airplane with a flight instructor, was practicing solo touch-and-go landings. During the first landing, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the airplane to veer to the right. The pilot applied full power, and the airplane became airborne.

Loss of Control

After leveling the wings, the airplane failed to gain sufficient altitude to clear the airport perimeter fence. It settled to the ground, and during the landing roll, the landing gear collapsed, resulting in damage to both wings.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane before the accident. The wind was reported as variable at 3 knots, gusting to 10 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06628. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.