Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during an emergency maneuver. Contributing to the accident was the failure of the left magneto.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the Aeronca 7AC stated that during the engine run-up for departure, he observed that the right magneto "failed." The pilot taxied the airplane back to the ramp, and a mechanic serviced the right magneto. The pilot then performed another engine run-up, which was satisfactory, and the airplane departed on runway 17. About 50 feet above ground level, the engine lost partial power. The pilot attempted a left turn back toward the airport, as there were trees in front of him. During the turn, the airplane stalled and impacted terrain. Examination of the wreckage revealed an inoperative left magneto.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for NYC08CA325 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 28, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Mt. Pleasant Regional Airport (LRO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7AC
- N-number
- N2504E
- 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.