No fatalities

25 May 2008: Aeronca 7AC — Valkaria, FL

Valkaria, FL, United States

On 25 May 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 1778583330Data 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