On May 25, 1991, a Champion 7KCAB (registration N6342N) operated by Richard L. Pascoe was involved in an aviation accident near Ossipee, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INADEQUATE ANNUAL INSPECTION BY THE MECHANIC WHICH RESULTED IN THE INFLIGHT FAILURE OF THE ELEVATOR CONTROL CABLE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During aerobatic maneuvers, the up elevator cable broke. The pilot returned using elevator trim but encountered a downdraft on final, resulting in a nose-first ground impact. FAA post-crash examination revealed a recent annual inspection and cable wear considered beyond expectations for the operating time.
Incident
The pilot was performing aerobatic maneuvers when the up elevator cable broke. Following the failure, the pilot returned to the airport and prepared for a landing using elevator trim as a substitute for elevator control.
Final Approach and Impact
On the final approach, the pilot reduced engine power. At that moment, the aircraft encountered a downdraft. The pilot was unable to prevent the airplane from striking the ground in a nose-down attitude.
Post-Crash Examination
The Federal Aviation Administration conducted a post-crash examination and determined that the aircraft had undergone an annual inspection 12 flight hours prior to the accident. The FAA stated that the cables exhibited wear that was beyond what would normally be expected from 12 hours of operation.