On March 19, 2006, a Champion 7EC (registration N4387C) was involved in an aviation accident near Zellwood, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of directional control due to the spring connecting the rudder to the tailwheel horn being detached. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After a normal approach and landing on runway 09, the aircraft began to swerve, left the runway, and entered a water-filled drainage ditch. Post-accident examination revealed the spring connecting the rudder to the tail wheel horn had detached.
Accident Details
The pilot reported making a "normal approach" and landing on runway 09. During the rollout, the aircraft began to swerve first to the left, then to the right, then back to the left, and finally swerved sharply to the right, leaving the runway and proceeding into a water-filled drainage ditch that ran parallel to the runway. The airplane was later moved to a hangar.
Post-Accident Examination
The pilot reported that post-accident examination revealed "the spring connecting the rudder to the tail wheel horn had detached." No other findings or contributing factors were mentioned in the source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Mar 2006 Champion 7EC accident near Zellwood, FL?
After a normal approach and landing on runway 09, the aircraft began to swerve, left the runway, and entered a water-filled drainage ditch. Post-accident examination revealed the spring connecting the rudder to the tail wheel horn had detached.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Mar 2006 Champion 7EC accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Mar 2006 involved a Champion 7EC, registration N4387C, at Zellwood, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A loss of directional control due to the spring connecting the rudder to the tailwheel horn being detached.
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