Casualties unknown

Aborted Takeoff Ends with Runway Excursion and Ditch Impact After Control Yoke Jams (N3529F)

Brevard, NC, US

On December 1, 2002, a Cessna 182J (registration N3529F) was involved in an aviation accident near Brevard, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the jamming of the elevator control system for undetermined reason, which resulted in the airplane departing the runway, and impacting with a ditch, during the aborted takeoff. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the pilot could not pull back the control yoke and aborted. The aircraft overran the runway, struck a ditch, and turned 180 degrees. A bent control lock pin was found in the cockpit.

Accident Description

According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll on a 2,903-foot runway, the control yoke would not move rearward to allow the airplane to become airborne. The pilot aborted the takeoff at a point approximately two-thirds of the way down the runway and applied the brakes. The airplane continued off the departure end of the runway, struck a ditch, and subsequently rotated about 180 degrees opposite the direction of travel.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the airplane's flight controls revealed continuity to the ailerons and rudder. Elevator control continuity was confirmed up to the baggage compartment. However, due to impact damage in the forward fuselage area, continuity to the yoke assembly could not be verified. A bent control lock pin was discovered on the floor between the seats.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Dec 2002 Cessna 182J accident near Brevard, NC?

During takeoff, the pilot could not pull back the control yoke and aborted. The aircraft overran the runway, struck a ditch, and turned 180 degrees. A bent control lock pin was found in the cockpit.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Dec 2002 involved a Cessna 182J, registration N3529F, at Brevard, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the jamming of the elevator control system for undetermined reason, which resulted in the airplane departing the runway, and impacting with a ditch, during the aborted takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021204X05557. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.