On February 23, 1997, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N84486) operated by John J. Murphey was involved in an aviation accident near Rubidoux, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing gusty crosswind condition, and his failure to maintain runway alignment. The gusty crosswind was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
On final approach, a pilot encountered wind changes, applied full rudder and power, but struck a boundary chain link fence. Witnesses reported the aircraft appeared too fast with full power.
Accident Details
During a crosswind landing attempt, the pilot reported that on final approach, the winds changed momentarily. He reduced the crosswind correction and was then struck by a gust of wind. The pilot applied full rudder but continued to drift downwind. He then applied power, but the aircraft hit a boundary chain link fence.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported observing the aircraft attempting a crosswind landing. They stated that the aircraft appeared to be coming in too fast and had full power. The witnesses saw the aircraft bounce and further commented that 'the pilot over corrected in his attempt to regain control of the aircraft.'
Subsequent Observations
An off-duty FAA operations inspector, who was present a few minutes after the accident, reported that the winds were variable from 330 to 020 gusting to 25 knots.