Casualties unknown

Uncommanded Roll and Aileron Jam on Beech 1900D Due to Flap Asymmetry (N75ZV)

Seattle, WA, US

On January 21, 1997, a Beech 1900D (registration N75ZV) operated by Mesa Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Seattle, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: an axial shift of the aft flap track bearing's outer roller, resulting in erosion and failure of the flap track bracket/bearing assembly. A factor relating to the incident was: inadequate inspection of the flap roller bearing/bracket assemblies. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach, a Beech 1900D experienced a rapid uncommanded right roll and temporary aileron jam after selecting 35 degrees flaps. Investigation revealed a detached outboard flap caused asymmetry and mechanical interference.

Occurrence

While on final approach, the airplane commenced a rapid, uncommanded roll to the right when the 35-degree flap setting was selected. The flying pilot, the 1st officer, was able to counter the roll by applying almost full opposite aileron. During this application, he felt the aileron jam momentarily and then break free. The airplane landed without further incident.

Examination Findings

A post-incident examination revealed that the inboard, aft end of the right wing outboard flap was detached from the wing flap track. This detachment resulted in flap asymmetry and mechanical interference with the aileron. The flap track roller bearing was seized, and the flap mounting bracket was torn and separated from the bearing. The bearing outer roller was loose and could be shifted axially on the bearing outer ring. This allowed the outer roller flange to wear against and eventually tear through the flap mounting bracket.

Maintenance Issues

The operator was not using the most recent (revised) Beech 1900D maintenance manuals at the time of the incident. Consequently, the airplane had not been subjected to a detailed inspection of the flap roller brackets, roller bearings, and attachment hardware as outlined in revised sections of the manual.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07358. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.