N4666E

On September 22, 1995, at 1645 central daylight time, a Aeronca 7EC, N4666E, piloted by the owner/operator, was substantially damaged following a loss of engine power and subsequent collision with trees during an aborted takeoff on a private airstrip in Hudson, Wisconsin. The airplane experienced the loss of power during the takeoff phase of a touch and go landing. The pilot reported no injuries. The local 14 CFR Part 91 pleasure flight operated in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan.

In a detailed written statement, the pilot reported that he was performing the takeoff phase of a touch and go landing on runway 27 (1200' x 130'). The pilot stated, "Upon application of full power the engine stumbled, then finally caught developing apparently full power." As a precautionary measure, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff because he was concerned with the engine's dependability to continue with the takeoff and climb over a powerline which is located at the western end of the strip. At approximately 700 feet down the runway, the pilot applied the brakes to abort the takeoff. The pilot stated that he was having difficulty stopping the airplane due to the airspeed and the downsloping terrain of the airstrip. He stated that he was afraid of the possibility that the airplane might cross a ditch and enter a highway, so he made a conscience decision to impact a row of small trees to arrest the airplane. The airplane impacted trees and came to rest.

Postaccident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies. The engine was successfully started and run up to 1200 RPM without incident.

The pilot stated, "Until the runway is extended east (which is planned) no touch and go landing should be attempted on this strip especially to the west because of the highway and a powerline. Takeoffs to the east have total free exit with no obstacles of any kind." The pilot's recommendation as to how the accident could have been prevented was: "No touch and go on a short field."