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Casualties unknown

Loss of Control During Landing of Tail Wheel Airplane (N81800)

Fort Worth, TX, US

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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Sept 1999 Aeronca 7-AC accident near Fort Worth, TX?

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.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Sept 1999 involved an Aeronca 7-AC, registration N81800, at Fort Worth, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19776. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.