N9682S

Substantial
None

CHAMPION 7ECAS/N: 469

Accident Details

Date
Sunday, July 30, 2017
NTSB Number
GAA17CA462
Location
Butler, PA
Event ID
20170801X92901
Coordinates
40.776668, -79.951110
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in crosswind conditions.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
CHAMPION
Serial Number
469
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1966
Model / ICAO
7ECA
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
7ECA

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
ROETHLISBERGER JOHN
Address
147 BIMBER AVE
City
BEAVER FALLS
State / Zip Code
PA 15010-1017
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll in crosswind conditions, while correcting to maintain the runway centerline, the "upwind wing lifted" and the airplane swerved off the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the left wing lift strut impacted a runway sign.

The left wing sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

An automated weather observation station, about the time of the accident, at the accident airport, reported wind from 150° at 3 knots. The pilot reported that the landing was on runway 8.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA462