Aeronca 7AC N1097E accident near Buffalo, Wyoming

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper flare and subsequent failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the aborted landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during landing, the airplane touched down and bounced. The pilot initiated a go-around; however, the airplane did not establish a positive rate of climb and subsequently bounced on the runway several more times. The airplane then ground-looped, exited the runway, and struck a drainage ditch, which resulted in the collapse of both main landing gear. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left-wing spar.

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane. The pilot estimated that at the time of the accident, density altitude was greater than 8,000 ft.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA250 for the full record.