N83661Aeronca 7AC · 1946

The pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings in the tail-wheel-equipped airplane, on a 2,505-foot-long, by 50-foot-wide, asphalt runway. The pilot reported that he performed a "normal" landing at a speed of approximately 60 miles per hour (mph); however, the airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway, at a ground speed of 35 to 40 mph. The airplane struck a hanger located approximately 200 feet from the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector did not reveal any evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions. The inspector also noted that there were no skid marks or evidence of braking from the runway, to the point of impact at the hanger. Calm winds were reported 8 nautical miles northeast of the airport.