Probable cause
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot had performed two takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel-equipped airplane and then elected to perform a full-stop, three-point landing. The student pilot stated that he applied left aileron and right rudder control inputs to correct for a left crosswind during the landing approach; however, after the three-point landing, the airplane veered to the left. He attempted to regain directional control, but the airplane continued off the left side of the runway, where it collided with trees and bushes, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing. The student pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA490 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 1, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Winter Haven, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Winter Haven'S Gilbert Airport (GIF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7AC
- N-number
- N1060E
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.