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Casualties unknown

Airplane Crashes After Takeoff Due to Misrigged Elevator Controls (N3167E)

Berwick, ME, US

On May 21, 1994, an Aeronca 11AC (registration N3167E) was involved in an aviation accident near Berwick, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight which fail to detect proper operation of the elevator which resulted in the loss of control inflight. A factor is inadequate maintenance which consisted of misrigging of the elevator flight controls. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, an airplane descended steeply and crashed at the runway midpoint. Investigation revealed the elevator controls were misrigged, operated in reverse, and had multiple maintenance deficiencies.

Accident Overview

Shortly after takeoff, the airplane descended steeply to the ground and crashed at the midpoint of the runway. The aircraft was on its first flight following an annual inspection conducted by a licensed mechanic. On the day of the accident, the pilot had worked on the airplane for several hours.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the airplane revealed that the elevator flight controls were misrigged, causing the elevator to operate in reverse to normal control inputs. The elevator turnbuckle safety wire was tied in an unsatisfactory manner. Additionally, an elevator control bolt was installed with inadequate clearance from the airframe.

Maintenance Background

Safety wire was found inside the airplane, and screws and fasteners were discovered among the pilot's personal effects. The annual inspection was performed by a licensed mechanic, and this flight was the first since that inspection.

Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1994 Aeronca 11AC accident near Berwick, ME?

After takeoff, an airplane descended steeply and crashed at the runway midpoint. Investigation revealed the elevator controls were misrigged, operated in reverse, and had multiple maintenance deficiencies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1994 involved an Aeronca 11AC, registration N3167E, at Berwick, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate preflight which fail to detect proper operation of the elevator which resulted in the loss of control inflight. A factor is inadequate maintenance which consisted of misrigging of the elevator flight controls.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01376. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.