Probable cause
An in-flight loss of control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.
NTSB analysis
After a planned refueling stop, the pilot taxied to a runway intersection and began his takeoff roll. Witnesses reported that when the airplane was about 200 feet above ground level, it entered a gradual left turn, which progressed into a steep left turn. The airplane lost altitude during a 180 degree turn and then impacted the ground. An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot's autopsy noted mild coronary atherosclerosis; however, it is unlikely that this would have resulted in preaccident incapacitation of the pilot.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA15FA017 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 16, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cordele, Georgia
- Nearest airport
- Crisp County-Cordele (CKF)
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 1
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7EC
- N-number
- N946DR
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.