Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's delay in transferring fuel from the gravity feed wing tanks to the main tank.
NTSB analysis
The pilot made a full-stop landing, taxied back, and took off. During the climb out, the engine "sputtered" and lost power. The pilot made a forced landing on a grass field. During the landing, the right main landing gear fractured aft and collapsed, and the right wing and lift strut were bent. When asked how this accident could have been prevented, the pilot said he should have transferred fuel from the gravity feed wing tanks to the main tank sooner. An examination of the airplane's engine and other systems revealed no anomalies.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10LA478 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 14, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Justin, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Prop Wash (16X)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7CCM
- N-number
- N85065
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.