Casualties unknown

1997-05-27: Piper PA-32-300 (N4510X) — Tinian, CQ

Tinian, CQ

On May 27, 1997, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N4510X) was involved in an aviation accident near Tinian, CQ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper takeoff abort. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's improper preflight planning and preparation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During climb out, the control yoke locked fore/aft, prompting the pilot to abort. The aircraft porpoised 1,500 feet, collapsing the nose gear. FAA inspectors found no control interference.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that the takeoff proceeded normally. However, while attempting to adjust the pitch attitude during climb out of ground effect, the control yoke became locked in position and could not be moved fore or aft. The pilot aborted the takeoff. The aircraft porpoised down the remaining 1,500 feet of runway, causing the nose landing gear to collapse.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination conducted by two FAA inspectors failed to identify any type of control interference. The inspectors also noted that the company station manager reported that the pilot had initially mentioned experiencing 'odd vibrations' just before the abort was initiated.

Findings

No mechanical obstruction or malfunction was found in the flight control system. The exact reason for the control yoke lock remains undetermined based on the available evidence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07962. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.