Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff from a frozen lake.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was departing a plowed "airstrip" on an ice-covered lake. During the takeoff roll, the airplane veered to the left and the left wheel hit a snowbank on the left side of the airstrip. The airplane nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and empennage. The pilot reported that the airplane experienced no mechanical malfunction or failure prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA191 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 30, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Newaygo, Michigan
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ercoupe 415-CD
- N-number
- N127G
- 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.