On December 29, 2005, a Champion 7ECA (registration N7569F) was involved in an aviation accident near Fredericksburg, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control on the landing roll-out. A factor was the crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot conducting a low approach to check wind conditions experienced a ground loop after landing on a 5,002-foot runway, veering left after corrections.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot with 418 flight hours was performing a landing in a tailwheel-equipped single-engine airplane on Runway 14. Prior to landing, the pilot executed a low approach to evaluate the wind, as a 14-knot gusting crosswind from the right side of the runway was present. After the low pass, the pilot reentered the right downwind pattern for a full-stop landing.
Landing Sequence
On the second approach, the airplane touched down and began to veer to the right. The pilot applied corrective controls. Following the corrections, the airplane ground-looped and departed the runway to the left side. Runway 14 is 5,002 feet long and 75 feet wide, constructed of asphalt.
Occupant Status
Both occupants were able to exit the airplane unassisted.