Accident Overview
On August 26, 2011, at approximately 1252 central daylight time, a WSK PZL Mielec M-18 Dromader, registered as N7070L, collided with terrain shortly after departing from runway 24 at Albertus Airport in Freeport, Illinois. The flight was operated by S. A. S. Aerial Application under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 for an aerial application operation. Visual flight rules conditions were in effect, and no flight plan was filed. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot sustained serious injuries. The aircraft sustained impact and fire damage to the fuselage, both wings, the vertical tail, and the engine.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the engine performed normally during the pretakeoff run-up and the takeoff roll. After liftoff, the airplane did not climb as expected. The pilot reported that the aircraft nearly struck a house, and he initiated a downwind turn to avoid terrain. The airplane then stalled and landed flat in a field, subsequently flipping over. The pilot noted no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the forward elevator control push rod was bent, effectively limiting the up elevator travel. The bend did not appear to have occurred during the accident sequence. Measurement of the elevator control surface travel showed 15 degrees of up elevator and 19 degrees of down elevator. According to the European Aviation Safety Agency Type Certificate Data Sheet for the M-18 Dromader, the specified limits were 27 degrees up and 17 degrees down. Additionally, tool marks and denting consistent with the use of a pliers-type tool were found on the aft elevator control push rod.
During the on-site investigation, it was discovered that a shipment containing a new elevator push rod for the pilot/owner had arrived at the departure airport after the accident. The shipment had not been installed at the time of the accident. The shipping label indicated that the package was dispatched on the same date as the accident.