Aeronca 7AC N2659E accident near Westphalia, Michigan

May 24, 2025 · NTSB number CEN25LA186 · Preliminary report

Preliminary information

On May 24, 2025, at 1300 eastern daylight time, an Aeronca 7AC, N2659E, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Westphalia, Michigan. The commercial pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations as a Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot stated that he flew to Forest Hill Airport, Westphalia, Michigan, where he performed a full stop landing and taxied back on the runway for takeoff. The subsequent takeoff was normal until the airplane climbed to 100 ft above ground level, at which time the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot then performed a forced landing to a field where the airplane touched down and nosed over due to muddy field conditions. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

The airplane was retained from further examination.

Text from the NTSB; a preliminary report can change and names no cause. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA186 for the full record.

Event

Date
May 24, 2025
Type
Accident
Place
Westphalia, Michigan
Nearest airport
Forest Hill Airport (3F5)
Highest injury
None
Weather
Visual (VMC)
Light
Day

Aeronca 7AC

N-number
N2659E
Category
Airplane
Year built
1946
Damage
Substantial
Operating rule
Part 91 (general aviation)
Purpose of flight
Personal

Other records under this N-number

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.