Casualties unknown

2003-06-18: Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (N94327) — Atwood, IL

Atwood, IL, US

On June 18, 2003, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N94327) was involved in an aviation accident near Atwood, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area and his improper decision to continue the approach without the airport and runway clearly in-sight. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane was substantially damaged after impacting wires and a roadway sign during an off-airport landing. The pilot lost sight of the runway, confused a road for the airstrip, and struck obstacles before coming to rest in a cornfield.

Accident Details

The airplane sustained substantial damage when it struck wires and a roadway sign during an off-airport landing. The pilot reported that he was flying into an unfamiliar airport and lost sight of the runway while in the traffic pattern. He stated that he confused a road for the airstrip and subsequently hit the wires and a road sign while attempting to land.

After the impact, the airplane traveled approximately 300 feet into a cornfield, where it spun before coming to a stop.

Aircraft and Damage

The airplane was substantially damaged in the accident. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or occupants were provided in the source.

Pilot Statement

The pilot indicated that the confusion arose from the unfamiliar airport environment and the loss of visual contact with the runway. He specifically noted that he mistook a road for the intended landing area, leading to the collision with obstacles.

Location and Circumstances

The accident occurred during an off-airport landing. The specific location, time of day, weather conditions, and any other environmental factors were not specified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030620X00915. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.