N3JZ

Substantial
None

Champion AERONCA 7FCS/N: 7FC-212

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, April 2, 2020
NTSB Number
CEN20CA138
Location
Hessel, MI
Event ID
20200406X24210
Coordinates
46.035556, -84.417778
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's loss of directional control during landing in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a snowbank.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
CHAMPION
Serial Number
7FC-212
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
AERONCA 7FC
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
AERONCA 7FC

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
FREEL MICHAEL R
Address
844 W SHAFFMASTER AVE
City
CEDARVILLE
State / Zip Code
MI 49719-9462
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he attempted a three-point, full stall landing, with a right-quartering headwind of about 10 to 15 knots. During rollout, the pilot experienced an unanticipated wind gust that raised the right wing and turned the airplane about 30° to the right. The pilot attempted to correct, but the airplane exited the right side of the runway and contacted a snowbank. The airplane decelerated rapidly and nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and wing strut.

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

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN20CA138