On October 3, 1991, a Cessna C-172N (registration N3318E) operated by Air One was involved in an aviation accident near Palo Alto, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INFLIGHT LOS OF CONTROL DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE STUDENT PILOT TO CORRECTLY CONFIGURE THE RUDDER TRIM FOR TAKEOFF. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot practicing solo soft field takeoffs and landings experienced a steep climb after rotation, then drifted left in a nose-high descent, striking a tree on an adjacent golf course. Post-accident examination found no control system anomalies but the rudder trim was set 50% left.
Accident Overview
A student pilot was conducting a solo instructional flight, practicing soft field takeoffs and landings. According to ground witnesses at the airport, the aircraft achieved a very steep climb angle after rotation during the takeoff initial climb. Subsequently, the aircraft began drifting to the left in a nose-high descent attitude. The left wing then collided with a tree on a golf course adjacent to the airport.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspectors examined the aircraft. Control system continuity was established throughout the aircraft, and no abnormal system conditions were noted during the examination. The rudder trim control was found positioned at about 50 percent to the left.
What happened in the 3 Oct 1991 Cessna C-172N accident near Palo Alto, CA?
A student pilot practicing solo soft field takeoffs and landings experienced a steep climb after rotation, then drifted left in a nose-high descent, striking a tree on an adjacent golf course. Post-accident examination found no control system anomalies but the rudder trim was set 50% left.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Oct 1991 involved a Cessna C-172N, registration N3318E, operated by Air One, at Palo Alto, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
AN INFLIGHT LOS OF CONTROL DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE STUDENT PILOT TO CORRECTLY CONFIGURE THE RUDDER TRIM FOR TAKEOFF.
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