Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in crosswind conditions, the airplane encountered a wind gust, the tail swung to the right, and the airplane veered off the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the right main landing gear impacted an airport sign and collapsed.
The right wing lift strut sustained substantial damage.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observing system at the airport near the time of the accident reported the wind direction at 330 degrees true at 7 knots. The pilot reported that he landed on runway 5.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA043 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 22, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Winter Haven, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Winter Haven'S Gilbert (GIF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 11AC
- N-number
- N9410E
- 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.