On February 23, 1998, a Beech 100 (registration N236CP) operated by Victor Gonzales was involved in an aviation accident near Reno, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Restricted elevator control due to ice accumulation in the tail section, which was caused by water drains and limber holes being plugged with debris. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot encountered restricted elevator control in flight, leading to a precautionary landing. Postflight inspection revealed ice in the tail section blocking control cables.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering restricted elevator control while the aircraft was in flight. Despite the mechanical issue, the pilot managed to complete an uneventful precautionary landing without further incident.
The investigation
Following the landing, a postflight inspection was conducted on the aircraft. Inspectors discovered that ice had accumulated in the tail section of the airframe. This ice buildup physically restricted the movement of the elevator control cables, preventing normal operation.
Further examination revealed that the water drain and limber holes designated for this specific compartment were plugged with debris. The blockage likely contributed to the retention of moisture that subsequently froze, leading to the control restriction.
Probable cause
Restricted elevator control due to ice accumulation in the tail section, which was caused by water drains and limber holes being plugged with debris.
What happened in the 23 Feb 1998 Beech 100 accident near Reno, NV?
A pilot encountered restricted elevator control in flight, leading to a precautionary landing. Postflight inspection revealed ice in the tail section blocking control cables.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Feb 1998 involved a Beech 100, registration N236CP, operated by Victor Gonzales, at Reno, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Restricted elevator control due to ice accumulation in the tail section, which was caused by water drains and limber holes being plugged with debris.
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