Casualties unknown

1999-08-28: Aeronca 11BC (N9404E) — Watervliet, MI

Watervliet, MI, US

On August 28, 1999, an Aeronca 11BC (registration N9404E) was involved in an aviation accident near Watervliet, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot not maintaining aircraft control during takeoff, and the pilot not correcting for the porpoise. 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 takeoff, an airplane bounced two to three times on the runway, resulting in a collapsed landing gear and broken propeller. No anomalies were found during post-accident examination.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the airplane experienced multiple bounces on the runway. According to the pilot, the airplane bounced two to three times before the landing gear and propeller broke. A passenger onboard reported that upon liftoff, the airplane ballooned off the runway, then came back down and bounced once, porpoised twice, and finally the landing gear collapsed.

Examination Findings

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies. The aircraft's systems and components were found to be in normal operating condition, with no pre-existing mechanical issues identified.

Sequence of Events

The takeoff began normally, but shortly after becoming airborne, the airplane unexpectedly ballooned upward. It then descended back to the runway, bouncing and porpoising multiple times. During these oscillations, the landing gear collapsed and the propeller sustained damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19466. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.