On September 6, 1984, a Cessna 320B (registration N32ORD) was involved in an aviation accident near Clear Lake, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The mechanic failed to secure the map compartment following maintenance on an air vent. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A mechanic failed to secure the map compartment after maintenance on an air vent. The assembly interfered with the control yoke during takeoff rotation, limiting climb rate and causing a tree collision. The flight continued, but during landing at 180 mph the nose dropped despite full back stick, resulting in a hard landing and multiple bounces.
Incident Description
The incident occurred after a mechanic performed maintenance on an air vent. Following the maintenance, the mechanic failed to secure the map compartment. The unsecured map compartment assembly interfered with the rearward movement of the control yoke. This interference took place during the rotation phase of takeoff. As a result, the climb rate of the aircraft was limited, and the aircraft subsequently collided with trees. Despite the collision with trees, the flight continued to its destination without further incident.
Landing Event
Upon arrival at the destination, the aircraft began its landing flare at a speed of 180 miles per hour. During the flare, the nose of the aircraft dropped despite the pilot's application of full back stick. The aircraft then landed hard on the runway. It bounced several times before rolling to a stop.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the incident was the mechanic's failure to secure the map compartment following maintenance on an air vent.