Casualties unknown

Rudder Pedal Jam Results in Landing Incident During Climb (N3321A)

Griffith, IN, US

On April 27, 1986, a Piper PA-22 (registration N3321A) was involved in an aviation accident near Griffith, IN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, the pilot could not move the aileron to correct a left bank due to jammed rudder pedals, leading to a landing with left wing low and right wing striking a creek bank.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced a control issue shortly after takeoff while climbing through 60 feet above ground level. The aircraft entered a 15-degree left bank, and the pilot found that the aileron could not be moved to correct the bank. In response, the pilot reduced engine power and executed a landing in a left-wing-low attitude.

During the landing roll, the aircraft slid and the right wing struck a creek bank.

Post-Accident Inspection

An inspection conducted after the accident revealed that the rudder pedals were jammed in the full left position. On this aircraft, the aileron and rudder controls are interconnected, which explains the inability to move the aileron when the rudder pedals were stuck.

No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, or injuries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33256. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.