Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a takeoff attempt.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA269 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 15, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Glens Falls, New York
- Nearest airport
- Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport (GFL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
American Champion Aircraft 7GCBC
- N-number
- N720AC
- 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.