Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taking off in a crosswind, which resulted in a collision with a tree.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he departed to the north with a left crosswind. Once the light-sport airplane became airborne, it weathervaned into the wind and veered left of the runway. The airplane's left wing clipped a tree, and the airplane subsequently nosed over. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane or engine. He added that it was probably a combination of "not doing enough things" that resulted in the loss of directional control.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA15LA251 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 24, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- East Moriches, New York
- Nearest airport
- Lufker (49N)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7AC
- N-number
- N84927
- 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.