What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-09-08 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N85798, at Kaufman, TX.

Tailwheel Aircraft Struck Fence During Grass Runway Takeoff, Destroyed by Post-Crash Fire (N85798)

On September 8, 1998, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N85798) was involved in an aviation accident near Kaufman, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude and clearance of obstructions during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During takeoff from a 1,700-foot grass runway, a tailwheel airplane struck a barbed wire fence at the departure end. After intentionally turning to avoid trees, the aircraft stopped, the occupants exited, and a fire erupted, destroying the airplane.

Accident Details

During a takeoff attempt from a 1,700-foot grass runway, a tailwheel-equipped airplane collided with a three-foot-high barbed wire fence oriented perpendicular to the departure end of the runway. The pilot subsequently executed an intentional turn to avoid striking a line of trees adjacent to the runway.

Post-Impact Events

After the aircraft came to a stop, the pilot and a passenger evacuated. A fire then erupted, which ultimately destroyed the airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that winds were calm at the time of the accident. The aircraft had operated normally during a brief flight earlier the same day. A standard engine run-up was performed prior to the attempted takeoff.

Aircraft and Runway Information

The accident occurred on a grass runway. The fence that was struck was perpendicular to the departure end. No other factual details about the aircraft, its occupants, or the location are included in the source.

1998-09-08: Aeronca 7AC (N85798) — Kaufman, TX