Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers Left During Takeoff Roll After Nose Wheel Steering Deselection (N104BR)

West Chicago, IL, US

On August 28, 2001, a Swearingen SA226-T (registration N104BR) was involved in an aviation accident near West Chicago, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the checklist not followed and the directional control not maintained by the pilot. A contributing factor was the left propeller’s start locks being engaged. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll on Runway 1L, the airplane veered left when the pilot deselected nose wheel steering at about 60 knots. Examination revealed flaps at 1/2 position and engine start locks incorrectly set.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during the takeoff roll on Runway 1L, which measures 6,700 feet by 100 feet and consists of dry grooved concrete. The airport's automated surface observing system recorded wind from 050 degrees at 10 knots. When the pilot deselected nose wheel steering at approximately 60 knots, the airplane veered towards the left.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed several configuration discrepancies. The trailing edge flaps and the corresponding cockpit control were found in the 1/2 flap position. Additionally, two of the left propeller's start locks were engaged, while the third start lock was damaged. On the right propeller, two start locks were not engaged, and the remaining start lock cam exhibited a witness mark prior to the locking point of the cam.

Operational Context

The airplane's checklist specifies that flaps should be in the retracted position and that the engine start locks must be disengaged prior to takeoff. Furthermore, the airplane flight manual does not contain performance data for takeoff configurations with 1/2 flaps. Despite the discrepancies, examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010904X01875. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.