Pilot Debrief

AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT 7GCBC near Glens Falls, NY — 2010-05-15

Final reportERA10CA269
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Date
2010-05-15
Location
Glens Falls, NY, USA
Airport
GFL
Aircraft
AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT 7GCBC
Registration
N720AC
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a takeoff attempt.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane stated that the purpose of the flight was to conduct touch and go landings on a north-oriented grass runway. After the first landing, he "misjudged the remaining takeoff distance" and was "a bit slow while trying to get airborne." As the airplane lifted off, it encountered a "gust" of wind from the left, then drifted to the right, contacted the runway, and nosed over. The airplane came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing spar and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures. The automated weather report at the accident airport reported winds from 330 degrees at 9 knots.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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