Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Aircraft
Aircraft departed for local flight and it was observed from ground by local pilots that the landing gear was collapsed to centerline under the aircraft and not in a position for a normal landing. Pilot was radioed of the situation and elected to land in the grassy area parallel to the active runway. Under control; the gear collapsed and the right gear separated from the undercarriage. The aircraft continued on the grass till coming to rest upright. The pilot was not injured; but the aircraft was damaged.
Observers reported to an Aeronca pilot that his aircraft's landing gear failed after takeoff. Upon returning to land on a grassy airport area; the right gear separated from the aircraft.