No fatalities

Aeronca 7AC Collides with Terrain During Left Turn

Valkaria, FL, United States

On May 25, 2008, an Aeronca 7AC was involved in an aviation accident near Valkaria, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot applied excessive left rudder input during a left turn, leading to a loss of control and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

An Aeronca 7AC collided with terrain and an airport fence after the pilot applied excessive left rudder during a left turn at 200 feet. Postaccident examination found no preimpact malfunctions.

Event Summary

The pilot of an Aeronca 7AC planned to fly one circuit in the traffic pattern, followed by a landing and subsequent departure for a local-area flight. He reported performing a preflight inspection and engine run-up before takeoff, with the airplane performing normally during the takeoff roll and initial climb.

Sequence of Events

After reaching approximately 200 feet above ground level, the pilot initiated a slow left turn. During the turn, the airplane rolled to the left and the nose pitched down. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder. The airplane subsequently collided with terrain and an airport perimeter fence.

Pilot Statement

In a subsequent telephone interview, the pilot stated that he had applied too much left rudder input during the left turn, causing the left wing to "slip away."

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the airplane and engine revealed no preimpact malfunctions or anomalies. The pilot did not report any mechanical issues with the airplane.

Probable cause

The pilot applied excessive left rudder input during a left turn, leading to a loss of control and collision with terrain.

Contributing factors

Airspeed — Not attained/maintained

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 May 2008 Aeronca 7AC accident near Valkaria, FL?

An Aeronca 7AC collided with terrain and an airport fence after the pilot applied excessive left rudder during a left turn at 200 feet. Postaccident examination found no preimpact malfunctions.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 May 2008 Aeronca 7AC accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 May 2008 involved an Aeronca 7AC, at Valkaria, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot applied excessive left rudder input during a left turn, leading to a loss of control and collision with terrain.