On September 17, 1984, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N8592) was involved in an aviation accident near Ouzinkie, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Elevator cable failure due to severe corrosion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced smoke in the cockpit after a spin, then lost elevator control during a precautionary descent, resulting in the aircraft settling into 75-foot trees. Investigation found elevator cable failure due to severe corrosion.
Accident Sequence
The pilot completed a five-turn spin maneuver. Subsequently, the cockpit began to fill with smoke. The pilot turned off electrical equipment and initiated a descent for a precautionary landing. During this descent, elevator control was lost, and the aircraft settled into 75-foot tall trees.
Investigation Findings
The source of the fire that resulted in the battery boiling over was undetermined. The failure of the elevator cable was due to severe corrosion that had progressed over a period of time. The pilot, who is also a mechanic, had performed the last 100-hour inspection on the aircraft.