Accident Details
On June 24, 2015, at 1800 eastern daylight time, an Aeronca 7AC, registration N84927, was substantially damaged when it collided with a tree during takeoff from Lufker Airport (49N) in East Moriches, New York. The sport pilot was seriously injured and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated by the pilot and registered to a private company.
Flight and Weather Conditions
Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, which was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. No flight plan was filed. The pilot reported being familiar with the airport and having flown in and out of 49N on several occasions. He stated that after departing to the north with a left crosswind, the airplane became airborne and weather-vaned into the wind, veering left of the runway. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the left wing "grazed" a tree. The airplane then nosed over and impacted the ground, separating the engine from the airframe. There was no post-impact fire.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot held a sport pilot certificate and reported a total of 208 flight hours, with 12 hours in the accident airplane. The pilot noted no pre-mishap mechanical problems with the airplane or engine. Regarding the loss of directional control, the pilot stated it was "probably a combo of not doing enough things" to maintain directional control, though he was unsure why he could not avoid the trees.
Weather at Nearby Station
Weather reported at Brookhaven Airport (HWV) in Shirley, New York, approximately 5 miles west of 49N, included wind from 300 degrees at 7 knots, visibility 10 miles, clear skies, temperature 28°C, dewpoint 13°C, and a barometric pressure of 29.97 inches of mercury.