Uncommanded Roll During Descent Due to Electrical Connection Issue

Casualties unknown • Charlotte, NC, US

A flight crew experienced an uncommanded left roll while descending through 12,000 feet, later traced to a displaced pin in the autopilot circuit.

What happened

While descending through 12,000 feet, the captain reported that the aircraft experienced an uncommanded roll to the left. At the time of the event, the 'A' system autopilot was engaged and the aircraft was maintaining an airspeed of 250 knots.

In response to the roll, the pilot disengaged the autopilot and manually rolled the airplane to wings-level flight. The flight continued normally with the autopilot remaining in the off position.

The investigation

A post-incident examination of the aircraft identified an intermittent electrical connection within the 'A' autopilot circuit. Investigators determined that pin connectors had been pushed out of place on the flight control computer shelf connector. Specifically, one of the pins was located in the aileron position sensor excitation circuit.

Records indicated that the 'A' flight control computer had been removed and reinstalled the day before the incident as part of an inspection of the rack for fluid contamination.

Probable cause

An intermittent electrical connection in the autopilot circuit caused by displaced pin connectors on the flight control computer shelf connector.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-08-05 Boeing 737-3B7 accident near Charlotte, NC?

A flight crew experienced an uncommanded left roll while descending through 12,000 feet, later traced to a displaced pin in the autopilot circuit.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-08-05 involved a Boeing 737-3B7, registration N396US, operated by Usair, at Charlotte, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An intermittent electrical connection in the autopilot circuit caused by displaced pin connectors on the flight control computer shelf connector.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04317. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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