AERONCA 7AC near Blairs, VA — 2012-06-09

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a takeoff into sun glare.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was taking off to the west on a 2,500-foot-long, 75-foot-wide, turf runway. The pilot stated that, immediately after the airplane became airborne, he was blinded by the setting sun. The airplane drifted right and impacted airplanes that were parked off the right side of the runway. The pilot added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the airplane’s left wing.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Takeoff
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Photograph # 1: Left Wing Damage (Photo Courtesy of FAA)photos
• Weather Reportreport

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