Fatal crash of twin-engine aircraft during demonstration flight in Greensboro

6 fatalities • Greensboro, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine airplane crashed shortly after takeoff from Greensboro during a local demonstration flight, resulting in six fatalities.

What happened

During a local demonstration flight departing from Greensboro, a twin engine aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. Shortly after the departure phase, the plane descended uncontrollably and impacted the ground, resulting in a post-crash fire. There were six fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified a failure within the flight control system as the primary factor leading to the crash. Specifically, the elevator tab control system failed, causing an uncontrolled descent. The investigation revealed that a bolt responsible for connecting the aft elevator bellcrank to the elevator pushrod had become loose, effectively disconnecting the flight control system. Records indicated that a 100-hour inspection of the aircraft had been performed 66 hours before the accident occurred.

Probable cause

The loss of control was caused by the disconnection of the flight control system due to a loose bolt in the elevator tab mechanism.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-04-13 Cessna 402 accident near Greensboro, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane crashed shortly after takeoff from Greensboro during a local demonstration flight, resulting in six fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-04-13 Cessna 402 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-04-13 involved a Cessna 402, registration N4599Q, operated by Rusk Aviation, at Greensboro, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control was caused by the disconnection of the flight control system due to a loose bolt in the elevator tab mechanism.

Loading the flight search…