The non-certificated pilot was interested in purchasing the airplane and took it for a spin. During the takeoff, and approximately 40-50 feet into the air, the engine lost power. The pilot tried to turn back to the runway, but was unable. The airplanes tail hit the ground first followed by the main wheels. A check of the runway and accident site, revealed skid marks on the runway pointing to the crash site corresponding to the airplanes landing gear. Foot-deep ground scars were consistent with a rotating propeller. A review of the pilots certificate revealed that he was issued a student pilot certificate in April 1990, and did not have any flight instructor endorsements.
November 2, 2008, Chadron, Neb., Aeronca 7CCM
The non-certificated pilot was interested in purchasing the airplane and took it for a spin. During the takeoff, and approximately 40-50 feet into the air, the engine lost power. The pilot tried to turn back to the runway, but was unable. The airplanes tail hit the ground first followed by the main wheels. A check of the runway and accident site, revealed skid marks on the runway pointing to the crash site corresponding to the airplanes landing gear. Foot-deep ground scars were consistent with a rotating propeller. A review of the pilots certificate revealed that he was issued a student pilot certificate in April 1990, and did not have any flight instructor endorsements.
Key Takeaways:
- A non-certificated student pilot crashed an airplane during takeoff after experiencing an engine power loss at approximately 40-50 feet in the air.
- The pilot, who lacked the necessary flight instructor endorsements for solo flight, attempted an unsuccessful turn-back to the runway, resulting in a tail-first impact.
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