Casualties unknown

Maintenance Deactivation of Spoiler System Leads to In-Flight Control Difficulty (N800MX)

Panama City, FL, US

On July 25, 1990, a DE Havilland DHC-8-100 (registration N800MX) operated by Eastern Metro Express was involved in an aviation accident near Panama City, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF SEAL IN THE HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR FOR THE RIGHT OUTBOARD WING SPOILER PANEL FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

During takeoff, a warning light indicated spoiler deployment, leading to an abort. Maintenance deactivated the spoiler and warning systems. On the subsequent takeoff, roll control issues occurred, prompting a return and landing. Investigation found a deployed spoiler with a failed actuator.

Incident Overview

During an attempted takeoff roll, the flight crew observed a warning light indicating wing spoiler deployment. In response, they aborted the takeoff. Company maintenance personnel subsequently deactivated the wing spoiler system and the associated warning system.

Subsequent Flight and Landing

After the maintenance action, the crew initiated another takeoff. Following departure, they experienced difficulty with roll control. The crew decided to return to the airport and performed a landing.

Post-Flight Examination

An examination of the aircraft after landing revealed that the right outboard spoiler panel had deployed without any corresponding warning indication. The actuator for that spoiler panel was removed for inspection. The hydraulic seal within the actuator was found to be cut and leaking fluid around the piston. Additionally, the piston itself was worn beyond serviceable limits.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23755. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.