What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-03-31 involved an Aeronca 7DC, registration N4484E, at Wright, WY.

Engine Power Loss and Subsequent Takeoff Accident Following Fuel Water Drainage (N4484E)

On March 31, 1998, an Aeronca 7DC (registration N4484E) was involved in an aviation accident near Wright, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's use of unsuitable terrain for takeoff. Factors were snow and rock covered terrain, inadequate aircraft preflight, improper aircraft servicing, and the fuel contaminated by water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

After an engine lost all power in cruise due to water-contaminated fuel, the pilot drained water and attempted a takeoff. During the roll, the main landing gear entered a snow-covered area, causing the aircraft to swerve into rocks.

Engine Failure

After approximately two hours of flight, while cruising at 100 feet above ground level, the engine lost all power. The pilot executed a landing in a field.

Fuel Issue

Upon landing, the pilot drained water from the fuel system. The aircraft had been stored between flights with partially filled tanks in an area that experienced high temperature variations over a 24-hour period. According to the pilot, this practice enhances distillation of water in the tanks due to condensation.

Attempted Takeoff

After restarting the engine, the pilot attempted to take off from the field. During the takeoff roll, the main landing gear entered a snow-covered area.

Accident

As the aircraft entered the snow, it swerved and collided with rocks. The incident occurred during the takeoff attempt.

Pilot Remarks

The pilot indicated that the storage conditions—partially filled fuel tanks and significant temperature fluctuations—promoted water accumulation through condensation, which contributed to the fuel contamination.

1998-03-31: Aeronca 7DC (N4484E) — Wright, WY