On June 10, 2003, an American Champion (acac) 7EC (registration N607EC) was involved in an aviation accident near Louisville, KY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilots inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions, and his failure to maintain directional control. A factor related to the accident was the crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing, a tailwheel airplane became unstabilized due to wind, veered left after touchdown, and struck a taxiway sign. The pilot, on his second solo flight, regained control but the aircraft turned 180 degrees and the vertical stabilizer contacted the ground.
Accident Sequence
During the landing flare, the wind began to make the airplane unstabilized. After the main wheels touched down, the airplane veered to the left at a 45-degree angle and proceeded off the runway surface onto the grass. The pilot regained control of the airplane; however, the right main landing gear subsequently struck a taxiway identification sign, causing the airplane to turn 180 degrees. During the turn, the vertical stabilizer struck the ground.
Pilot Experience
The accident flight was the pilot's second solo flight in the tailwheeled airplane.
Weather Conditions
The winds reported at the airport, about the time of the accident, were from 200 degrees at 7 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Jun 2003 American Champion (acac) 7EC accident near Louisville, KY?
During landing, a tailwheel airplane became unstabilized due to wind, veered left after touchdown, and struck a taxiway sign. The pilot, on his second solo flight, regained control but the aircraft turned 180 degrees and the vertical stabilizer contacted the ground.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Jun 2003 American Champion (acac) 7EC accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jun 2003 involved an American Champion (acac) 7EC, registration N607EC, at Louisville, KY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilots inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions, and his failure to maintain directional control. A factor related to the accident was the crosswind.