On June 8, 1988, a Cessna 182L (registration N3153R) operated by Lawson G. Cox was involved in an aviation accident near Angola, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff due to a worn seat track that allowed the seat to slide rearward, which was not detected during the previous inspection. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control of the aircraft during takeoff when the seat slid backward due to worn track holes, causing the plane to leave the runway and strike a fence.
What happened
The accident occurred while the airplane was in the takeoff roll. The pilot reported that the cockpit seat suddenly slid toward the rear of the cabin. This unexpected movement compromised the pilot's ability to maintain control of the aircraft during the critical phase of flight.
As a result of losing control, the airplane departed the side of the runway and collided with a fence located adjacent to the airfield.
The investigation
A physical examination of the aircraft revealed that the seat track holes were excessively worn. This wear prevented the locking pins from engaging properly, allowing the seat to slide freely under load. Records indicated that the last inspection of the seat mechanism had been conducted 40 flying hours prior to the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff due to a worn seat track that allowed the seat to slide rearward, which was not detected during the previous inspection.
What happened in the 8 Jun 1988 Cessna 182L accident near Angola, LA?
A pilot lost control of the aircraft during takeoff when the seat slid backward due to worn track holes, causing the plane to leave the runway and strike a fence.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Jun 1988 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N3153R, operated by Lawson G. Cox, at Angola, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff due to a worn seat track that allowed the seat to slide rearward, which was not detected during the previous inspection.
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