N3177H

On June 30, 2000, at 1840 central daylight time, an Engineering & Research Ercoupe 415-CD airplane, N3177H, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain during landing at the Abbeville Chris Crusta Memorial Airport near Abbeville, Louisiana. The private pilot, who was the owner and sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The local flight originated from the Abbeville Airport at 1830.

According to the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot reported that the wind was from the south-southwest at 10-15 knots, and gusting to 20-25 knots. The pilot added that the "aircraft had no rudder pedals to allow for sufficient crab for conditions," and he had to use "higher than normal approach speeds to maintain directional control." The pilot reported to the FAA inspector that he was attempting to land on runway 15 prior to thunderstorms moving over the airport. The pilot added that he landed "fast and hit hard," and the airplane bounced and departed the runway into the grass. The nose landing gear collapsed, damaging the firewall.

The FAA reported the accident to the NTSB on August 3, 2000.