Aircraft Crash Due to Elevator Trim Tab Pushrod Failure (N8493A)

Incident Overview and Initial Climb Issues The aircraft used approximately half of the 8,602-foot runway for its takeoff roll. During the initial climb, the airplane briefly pitched nose-down over the runway. The pilot radioed that he was experiencing a problem with the elevator, which required full back pressure to keep the nose up, and announced that he was returning to land. ## Crash Sequence and Wreckage Findings After maneuvering around the airport, the aircraft pitched 70 to 80 degrees nose-down and dove into terrain off the approach end of the runway. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed. Wreckage examination revealed that the bolt securing the elevator trim tab pushrod to the actuator was missing. The rod had become wedged inside the elevator, resulting in an extreme tab-up (nose-down) condition. ## Maintenance and Preflight History The aircraft underwent an annual inspection two days and five flight hours before the accident. The IA mechanic reported that no maintenance was performed on the tab system and stated he was certain the bolt was properly safetied. Another pilot who flew the aircraft on the day of the accident reported finding the pushrod to be secure during his preflight inspection. ## Performance Data The 402B Pilot's Operating Handbook indicated that the aircraft should have required about 1,200 feet for the takeoff ground roll.