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Post-Rebuild Test Flight Crash Due to Improper Aileron Cable Installation (ZK-BFN)

Gisborne, New ZealandTakeoff (climb)

On April 14, 1969, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration ZK-BFN) operated by Fieldair was involved in an aviation accident near Gisborne, New Zealand during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the ailerons control cables were improperly installed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A rebuilt aircraft crashed during a local test flight after takeoff, seriously injuring both occupants. The official investigation found the aileron control cables were improperly installed.

Incident Overview and Outcome A local test flight was conducted after the airplane had been rebuilt following a previous accident. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went out of control and crashed near the runway. Both occupants sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed. ## Official Investigation Findings The investigation determined that the aileron control cables were improperly installed. This installation error was identified as the probable cause of the loss of control and subsequent crash. No other specific details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, date, or location were provided in the source material.

Maintenance error

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Apr 1969 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Gisborne, New Zealand?

A rebuilt aircraft crashed during a local test flight after takeoff, seriously injuring both occupants. The official investigation found the aileron control cables were improperly installed.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Apr 1969 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Apr 1969 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration ZK-BFN, operated by Fieldair, at Gisborne, New Zealand.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It was determined that the ailerons control cables were improperly installed.

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