On October 21, 2001, a Bellanca 7ECA (registration N2987Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The Bellanca pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the conventional-gear airplane and failure to aggressively apply brakes, resulting in collision with the Mooney's left wing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Bellanca conventional-gear aircraft lost directional control while taxiing from the run-up area to runway 04L, veering left and striking a stationary Mooney's left wing. Examination found no mechanical malfunctions in the Bellanca's control or braking systems.
Event Description
A Bellanca and a Mooney were initially positioned side-by-side at the run-up area for runway 04L. After completing its pretakeoff checks, the Bellanca pilot began taxiing toward the hold short lines. During this taxi, the pilot lost directional control of the conventional-gear aircraft. The Bellanca veered left toward the stationary Mooney. The pilot was unable to regain directional control and did not aggressively apply the brakes. Consequently, the Bellanca struck the Mooney's left wing.
Investigation Findings
A subsequent examination of the Bellanca's directional control and braking systems revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. The accident was attributed solely to the pilot's actions.
Probable cause
The Bellanca pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the conventional-gear airplane and failure to aggressively apply brakes, resulting in collision with the Mooney's left wing.