Casualties unknown

2001-05-29: Cessna 421C (N51ER) — James M. Scroggin — Greenville, MS

Greenville, MS, US

On May 29, 2001, a Cessna 421C (registration N51ER) operated by James M. Scroggin was involved in an aviation accident near Greenville, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The improper installation by maintenance personnel of the push-pull rod assembly on the right elevator trim tab horn resulted in an in-flight separation of the right elevator trim tab. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

A flight control problem during cruise, causing a nose-down pitch, led to a controlled descent and gear-up, no-flap landing. No injuries, substantial damage. Investigation found disconnected right elevator trim tab.

Incident Summary

During cruise flight, the airplane experienced a flight control problem characterized by a nose-down pitch tendency. The pilot executed a controlled descent to the nearest airport and performed a gear-up, no-flap landing on the runway. Neither the pilot nor the seven passengers were injured, but the airplane sustained substantial damage.

Aircraft Examination

Post-landing examination of the airplane revealed that the right elevator trim tab was not attached to the right elevator. The push-pull rod was not connected to the right elevator trim tab horn, and the bolt and hardware that would normally secure the push-pull rod to the horn were missing. Additionally, the trim actuator rod was found bent.

Landing Details

The pilot chose to land with the landing gear retracted and without deploying flaps. The landing was executed on the runway of the nearest airport after the controlled descent. The exact location and other environmental details were not specified in the investigation report.

Occupants and Injuries

All eight occupants—the pilot and seven passengers—were uninjured. No injuries were reported.

Damage Assessment

The airplane incurred substantial damage as a result of the gear-up landing. Specific damage items were not listed beyond the general classification of substantial damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010531X01043. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.