Casualties unknown

1999-05-04: Aeronca 7AC (N2403E) — Lancaster, CA

Lancaster, CA, US

On May 4, 1999, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N2403E) was involved in an aviation accident near Lancaster, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to attempt a ground turning maneuver in wind conditions beyond the capability of the aircraft. 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

A conventional gear airplane nosed over while attempting a 360-degree turn during taxi in gusty crosswinds. The pilot reported no mechanical issues with the aircraft.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducting a taxi maneuver experienced a loss of control when the tail of the conventional gear airplane lifted, causing the aircraft to nose over. The incident occurred after the pilot had been cleared for an intersection takeoff and was attempting a 360-degree turn to realign the airplane with the taxiway.

Wind Conditions

At the time of the maneuver, winds were reported from 270 degrees at 20 knots, with gusts reaching 26 knots. As the aircraft turned, the tail rotated into the wind, lifting the tail section and resulting in the nose-over.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, there were no mechanical abnormalities with the conventional gear airplane. The pilot did not attribute the event to any equipment malfunction.

Sequence of Events

The pilot initiated the 360-degree turn as part of the taxi procedure. During the turn, the tail of the aircraft became exposed to the gusty crosswind, lifting the tail wheel and causing the nose to pitch forward. The aircraft came to rest inverted on the taxiway.

Investigation

The incident is under investigation, with focus on the wind conditions and the aircraft's response during the low-speed turning maneuver. No further details have been released regarding the aircraft type or registration.

Conclusion

A conventional gear airplane nosed over during a taxi turn in gusty crosswinds. The pilot noted no mechanical issues, and the event appears to be related to the wind conditions during the maneuver.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18800. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.