No fatalities

9 Jun 2012: AERONCA 7AC — GIBBS EDWARD L — Blairs, VA

Blairs, VA, United States

On 9 Jun 2012, an AERONCA 7AC operated by GIBBS EDWARD L was involved in an aviation accident near Blairs, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a takeoff into sun glare. 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

A pilot reported being blinded by the setting sun immediately after takeoff on a turf runway, causing the airplane to drift right and strike parked aircraft. No mechanical issues were found, and substantial damage occurred to the left wing.

Incident Overview

A pilot attempted a westerly takeoff on a 2,500-foot-long, 75-foot-wide turf runway. As the airplane became airborne, the setting sun blinded the pilot. The airplane subsequently drifted to the right and collided with parked airplanes off the right side of the runway.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The mishap occurred during daylight hours with calm wind conditions reported at a nearby airport around the time of the event.

Aircraft Damage

A Federal Aviation Administration inspection revealed substantial damage to the left wing of the pilot's airplane. No other damage details were provided.

Environmental Conditions

No specific weather or lighting conditions beyond the setting sun were documented. Wind was reported as calm at a nearby airport, consistent with the time of the incident.

Investigation

The report did not include any analysis or conclusions regarding causal factors. The sequence of events—blinding sun, right drift, and collision—was based solely on the pilot's account and physical evidence.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Effect on personnel