What happened
The pilot reported that during the initial phase of takeoff, a piece of wood was picked up by one of the aircraft's wheels. This debris was then thrown against the elevator mechanism, causing it to jam. As a result, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. While the aircraft was out of control, the pilot believed it had impacted the ground. However, the aircraft did not crash immediately. A farmer's irrigation pipe located approximately one quarter mile from the airport was damaged by the debris or the aircraft itself. The aircraft sustained several holes in its fuselage due to the incident.
Despite the loss of control and damage, the pilot was able to regain sufficient control to continue flying. The pilot successfully landed the aircraft at an airport located 40 miles away from the site of the initial incident. No injuries were reported for the pilot or any passengers, though specific counts were not provided in the source text.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the elevator during takeoff. Examination revealed that a piece of wood had been picked up by a wheel and subsequently struck the elevator, causing it to jam. This mechanical interference was the primary factor in the loss of control. The damage to the aircraft included several holes in the fuselage, consistent with debris impact.
Findings
The primary finding was that wood debris picked up during takeoff caused the elevator to jam, leading to a temporary loss of control. The pilot's ability to recover and land safely at a distant airport highlights effective emergency management despite the severe mechanical interference. The incident resulted in damage to both the aircraft and nearby property, specifically a farmer's irrigation pipe.
Safety message
This incident underscores the importance of runway inspection and debris management during takeoff operations. Pilots should be aware of potential hazards such as loose objects on runways that can be ingested by wheels and cause significant mechanical damage. Awareness of such risks can help in mitigating potential outcomes during critical phases of flight.