On February 9, 1982, a Beech 200 (registration N205SG) operated by South Central Bell Telephone was involved in an aviation accident near Birmingham, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The manual pitch trim chain binding on a stringer in the pedestal. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During climb, the manual pitch trim malfunctioned, then ran away nose-up until the circuit breaker was pulled. Investigation found the trim chain binding on a pedestal stringer.
Incident Overview
While climbing through 500 feet above ground level after takeoff, the manual pitch trim struck at 1 or 2 units nose-up. Attempts to use the three trim disconnect switches did not resolve the issue. Approximately 30 seconds later, the pitch trim ran away nose-up and continued until the pitch trim circuit breaker was pulled. Manual trim remained inoperative. The problem ceased 2 to 3 minutes later.
Investigation Findings
Subsequent investigation disclosed evidence of the manual pitch trim chain binding on a stringer in the pedestal. No other malfunctions were identified. The aircraft had a history of malfunctioning manual pitch trim.
Probable cause
The manual pitch trim chain binding on a stringer in the pedestal.
What happened in the 9 Feb 1982 Beech 200 accident near Birmingham, AL?
During climb, the manual pitch trim malfunctioned, then ran away nose-up until the circuit breaker was pulled. Investigation found the trim chain binding on a pedestal stringer.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Feb 1982 involved a Beech 200, registration N205SG, operated by South Central Bell Telephone, at Birmingham, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The manual pitch trim chain binding on a stringer in the pedestal.
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