Landing Gear Collapse During Takeoff Roll

Casualties unknown • Robbinsville, NJ, US

A pilot experienced an uncommanded nose movement during the takeoff roll of a **Cessna** aircraft, resulting in a runway excursion and gear collapse.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, at an indicated airspeed of approximately 70 to 75 knots, the pilot experienced a sudden change in pitch where the nose of the aircraft dipped and then rose off the ground. In an attempt to stabilize the aircraft, the pilot pushed the control yoke forward to level the airplane. The aircraft subsequently contacted the runway and skidded to a stop. The impact resulted in the landing gear collapse.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed that critical hardware was missing from the stabilator trim rod. Specifically, the forward attachment hardware and the aft attachment nut were not installed. Investigation into the maintenance history showed that approximately 60 flight hours and 11 months prior to the accident, a repair station had removed, repaired, and reinstalled the stabilator trim tab. Physical inspection of the stabilator trim tab attachment point confirmed it was visible and not obscured by any cowlings or coverings.

Probable cause

The loss of forward attachment hardware on the stabilator trim rod caused an abnormal response in the stabilator control during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-10-02 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Robbinsville, NJ?

A pilot experienced an uncommanded nose movement during the takeoff roll of a **Cessna** aircraft, resulting in a runway excursion and gear collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-10-02 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N5507V, at Robbinsville, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of forward attachment hardware on the stabilator trim rod caused an abnormal response in the stabilator control during the takeoff roll.

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