Probable cause
A loss of directional control during landing due to the partial separation of the right main landing gear oleo strut from a failed weld.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane landed in a three-point configuration. Soon after touchdown the airplane veered right, and the left wing pitched up. The pilot depressed the left rudder pedal and reduced power. However, the airplane continued to veer right, departed the runway and impacted a chain link fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the right-wing strut. The pilot reported observing skid marks and a long trench consistent with the right main landing gear position in the accident path. The right main landing gear was found partially separated at the accident site.
Postaccident examination of the right main landing gear by the accident pilot and his mechanic revealed that the oleo strut fractured and separated due to a failed weld on the upper attachment end, which resulted in a partial separation of the right main landing gear after landing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR25LA300 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 1, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Firebaugh, California
- Nearest airport
- Firebaugh (F34)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aeronca 7AC
- N-number
- N82003
- 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.