Icing-induced elevator blockage causes pitch upset in Dornier 328

Casualties unknown • nahe Amsterdam, DE

An unengaged elevator horn anti-ice system led to the freezing of the elevator mechanism, causing sudden pitch changes and cabin damage during a flight near Amsterdam.

What happened

On April 14, 1998, a Dornier 328-100 operating from Amsterdam to Dresden experienced a significant flight disturbance while climbing through FL 100. The aircraft was flying in icing conditions characterized by light sleet and temperatures between 0°C and -10°C.

During the climb, the crew noticed the airspeed had increased to 220 knots, exceeding the preset 200 knots. When the pilot disconnected the autopilot to manually reduce speed, the aircraft experienced a sudden, violent pitch-up movement. This abrupt change caused a service trolley in the rear of the cabin to strike the ceiling panel, resulting in light damage to the aircraft.

Shortly after, while continuing the climb to FL 170, the airspeed dropped below the preset value. The crew attempted to correct the pitch manually, but disconnecting the autopilot a second time triggered a strong pitch-down moment. Although no injuries occurred, the aircraft sustained minor internal damage. The crew continued the flight to the destination using manual controls.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the pitch upset was the blockage of the elevator due to ice accumulation, resulting from the failure to activate the elevator horn anti-ice system during icing conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-04-14 Dornier/DO 328-100 accident near nahe Amsterdam, DE?

An unengaged elevator horn anti-ice system led to the freezing of the elevator mechanism, causing sudden pitch changes and cabin damage during a flight near Amsterdam.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-04-14 involved a Dornier/DO 328-100, at nahe Amsterdam, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the pitch upset was the blockage of the elevator due to ice accumulation, resulting from the failure to activate the elevator horn anti-ice system during icing conditions.

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