GREEN COVE SPGS, FL, USA
N9261E
Aeronca 11-AC
The pilot took off in a quartering tailwind with a passenger, who was interested in purchasing the airplane. After the airplane became airborne, the pilot determined the airplane would not clear a tree line, ahead. He made a 180 degree turn, did not round out, and landed hard on the runway. During the landing, the right main landing gear collapsed.
On June 16, 1996, about 1600 eastern daylight time, an Aeronca 11-AC, N9261E, not registered with the FAA by the private owner, operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 demonstration flight, crashed on takeoff at Haller Airpark, Green Cove Springs, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The commercial pilot and passenger who was interested in buying the airplane reported no injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot stated he took off with a left quartering tailwind. After the airplane became airborne, he determined that he would not clear a tree line to his front. He made a 180-degree turn , did not round out, and landed hard on the runway separating the right main landing gear. The passenger exited the airplane, stated he was not interested in purchasing the airplane, and left without giving his name.
The pilot's improper planning/decision by failing to ensure that the airplane would be able to clear obstructions at the end of the runway, while taking off with a tailwind component; and his failure (or inability) to flare the airplane after turning back to land on the runway. The tailwind and high obstructions were related factors.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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