On August 7, 2004, an Aeronca 15AC (registration N4433N) operated by David D. Schwartz was involved in an aviation accident near Big Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate evaluation of the weather conditions and subsequent collision with high vegetation during the initial climb after takeoff, which resulted in a collision with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot departing downwind from a 1,300-foot private airstrip struck bushes with the left main landing gear and left wing during takeoff, then nosed into the ground, causing structural damage to the right wing and lift strut.
Accident Details
A private certificated pilot was conducting a takeoff from a private airstrip. The airstrip was approximately 1,300 feet in length. At the southwest end of the strip, there were power lines and trees.
Weather and Departure Decision
The pilot reported that the weather conditions included a temperature of about 85 degrees Fahrenheit and wind from the southwest at 15 to 20 knots. Due to the obstructions at the southwest end, the pilot chose to depart toward the northeast, which was a downwind direction.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff, the airplane lifted off at the end of the strip. The left main landing gear tire and the left wing struck bushes about 5 to 10 feet above the ground. Following the contact, the airplane nosed into the ground. The right wing and the right wing lift strut sustained structural damage.