On March 27, 2003, an Aeronca CH-7A (registration N83519) was involved in an aviation accident near Cumberland, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot/mechanic's failure to ensure the proper installation of the left wing's aft strut-to-spar attachment bolt, which resulted in a loss of control and a subsequent impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff at about 400 feet, a rebuilt airplane made a 180-degree right turn, then a descending left turn, and impacted the ground in a steep left-wing-low attitude. Examination revealed no evidence of the left wing's aft strut-to-spar attachment bolt. The bolt was not located in the wreckage or at the accident site.
Accident Sequence
The flight was the first after the pilot/mechanic had completely rebuilt the airplane. Shortly after takeoff, while at an altitude of about 400 feet above ground level, the airplane executed a 180-degree right turn. This was followed by a descending left turn. The airplane then impacted the ground in a steep, left-wing-low attitude.
Investigation Findings
During the subsequent examination of the wreckage, investigators found no evidence that the left wing's aft strut-to-spar attachment bolt was present at the time of impact. The bolt could not be located in the wreckage or anywhere at the accident site. No other anomalies were reported in the source.
What happened in the 27 Mar 2003 Aeronca CH-7A accident near Cumberland, MD?
Shortly after takeoff at about 400 feet, a rebuilt airplane made a 180-degree right turn, then a descending left turn, and impacted the ground in a steep left-wing-low attitude. Examination revealed no evidence of the left wing's aft strut-to-spar attachment bolt. The bolt was not located in the wreckage or at the…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Mar 2003 involved an Aeronca CH-7A, registration N83519, at Cumberland, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot/mechanic's failure to ensure the proper installation of the left wing's aft strut-to-spar attachment bolt, which resulted in a loss of control and a subsequent impact with terrain.
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