What happened
During preflight inspections, the pilot noted that the elevator controls appeared to be functioning normally, providing full travel in both the forward and aft positions. However, following takeoff, the pilot was unable to maintain a normal takeoff pitch attitude. The aircraft entered an excessive climb rate that could not be corrected, even when the pilot applied full forward yoke pressure.
To maintain control of the aircraft and prevent an uncontrolled pitch-up, the pilot had to utilize power adjustments to keep the nose down. The pilot subsequently maneuvered the airplane back to the airport for a landing attempt. During the final approach, the airplane stalled just above the runway numbers.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the cause of the control issues. Investigators discovered that the elevator control lever had been bent. This bending was the result of an overload caused by a source that remained undetermined.