Incident Overview
On February 13, 2016, at approximately 2039 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), a Piper PA-28-140 airplane, Canadian Registration C-GQPN, was on approach to St. Andrews, Manitoba (CYAV). The aircraft was occupied by an instructor and a student.
Sequence of Events
Prior to touchdown, at an altitude of approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL), a snap was heard from the control system. The control column response became noticeably sluggish. The pilot managed to round out the aircraft just before touchdown. The aircraft landed safely and subsequently taxied back to the ramp.
Post-Incident Findings
A maintenance inspection of the control system revealed a complete failure of the control column T-bar assembly. The failed assembly was sent to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) laboratory for further analysis.
Regulatory Information
The accident investigation is under the jurisdiction and control of the Canadian government. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by or obtained from the Canadian government.