Accident Overview
On January 31, 2012, at 1142 central standard time, a Piper Aircraft, Inc., PA-22-135 single-engine airplane, registration N2677A, impacted terrain and obstructions during initial climb at Sheridan Municipal Airport (9M8) in Sheridan, Arkansas. The aircraft was operated by an individual under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The private pilot was seriously injured and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was substantially damaged. At the time of the accident, the flight was originating from 9M8 for a local flight.
Flight Narrative
During climbout, the nose of the airplane started to skid sharply to the left. The pilot lowered the nose to avoid stalling. The airplane descended and impacted terrain on the left side of the runway, coming to rest upright at the edge of a tree line. The impact completely separated the engine and propeller from the fuselage, and there was substantial damage to both wings, the forward fuselage, and the empennage.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that during the initial climb, the passenger had suddenly tensed up. The pilot said he was unable to move the rudder pedals to correct the left skid because of interference from the passenger, who was stepping on the passenger-side rudder controls.
Passenger Statement
The passenger reported that this was his first flight ever in any aircraft. He added that he was certain his feet were clear and that he was not pressing on the rudder pedals.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination confirmed flight control continuity and revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.