On September 12, 1999, an Aeronca 7-AC (registration N81800) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Worth, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported losing control of a tail wheel airplane during the landing roll after two touchdowns, resulting in a runway excursion and contact with a tree.
Accident Overview
A tail wheel equipped airplane experienced a loss of control during the landing roll. The pilot reported that the approach speed was 55 to 60 units. The initial touchdown was smooth, after which the airplane became airborne a second time. The second touchdown was also smooth but occurred to the left of the runway centerline.
Sequence of Events
Following the second touchdown, the airplane veered to the right, exited the right side of the runway, contacted a tree, and came to a stop in an upright position. The pilot reported that the winds were calm at the time of the accident.
Pilot Report
The pilot provided the approach speed range of 55 to 60 units and described both touchdowns as smooth. No other factors were reported.