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Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Trees During Touch-and-Go Landing Attempt (N93504)

Houston, TX, US

On March 13, 2001, an Ercoupe 415-C (registration N93504) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the turn from the downwind leg to the base leg, resulting in a premature descent, and he did not execute a go-around when needed. 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

During touch-and-go landings, a pilot misjudged a turn, resulting in a premature descent. He continued toward the runway at low altitude, the left wing struck trees, and the airplane entered an uncontrolled descent and impacted the ground.

Event Details

The pilot was conducting touch-and-go landings. While maneuvering, the pilot misjudged the turn from the downwind leg to the base leg. This misjudgment resulted in a premature descent.

Pilot Actions

Recognizing the situation, the pilot later stated that he should have executed a go-around. However, he elected to continue the approach toward the runway.

Accident Sequence

As the airplane proceeded on the final approach leg, its altitude was low. The left wing contacted trees, causing the airplane to enter an uncontrolled descent. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged the turn from the downwind leg to the base leg, resulting in a premature descent, and he did not execute a go-around when needed.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Mar 2001 Ercoupe 415-C accident near Houston, TX?

During touch-and-go landings, a pilot misjudged a turn, resulting in a premature descent. He continued toward the runway at low altitude, the left wing struck trees, and the airplane entered an uncontrolled descent and impacted the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Mar 2001 involved an Ercoupe 415-C, registration N93504, at Houston, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot misjudged the turn from the downwind leg to the base leg, resulting in a premature descent, and he did not execute a go-around when needed.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010315X00587. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.