Casualties unknown

2005-01-06: Champion 7FC (N8566E) — Howard B. Cauley — Soperton, GA

Soperton, GA, US

On January 6, 2005, a Champion 7FC (registration N8566E) operated by Howard B. Cauley was involved in an aviation accident near Soperton, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff roll, which resulted in an on-ground collision with trees. A factor was the pilot's lack of experience in a tailwheel airplane. 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

During takeoff, the airplane veered left, struck trees along the runway edge. The pilot had no tailwheel endorsement and minimal experience in the airplane.

Accident Overview

According to the pilot's statement, the accident occurred during the takeoff roll. As the airplane accelerated, it unexpectedly veered to the left. The pilot attempted to regain directional control but was unsuccessful. The left wingtip subsequently struck trees located along the left edge of the runway.

Sequence of Events

After the initial impact, the airplane spun around to the left. The right wing root and the propeller spinner then struck the same trees. The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction with the airplane. He stated that the airplane operated normally until the loss of control.

Pilot Experience and Training

The pilot acknowledged that he had not received tailwheel instruction from a certificated flight instructor and did not possess a tailwheel endorsement. He reported having accumulated approximately 0.4 hours of flight time in the accident airplane prior to the incident.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not identify any mechanical issues that could have contributed to the loss of control. The pilot's lack of tailwheel training and limited experience in the airplane were noted as relevant circumstances. No probable cause was assigned by the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050209X00158. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.