Flight control error leads to fatal crash during production test flight

2 fatalities • Lakeland, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A prototype aircraft crashed during its initial climb following a series of uncontrolled banks, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

What happened

During its inaugural production flight test, an unidentified aircraft type experienced a catastrophic loss of control. Immediately after departing the runway, the aircraft entered a sudden right-hand bank. This maneuver was followed by an equally sharp bank to the left, which ultimately led to a high-speed impact with the terrain.

The accident occurred during the initial climb phase of the flight. There were no survivors of the impact, as both pilots perished in the crash.

Findings

Post-accident investigations focused on the mechanical state of the flight control systems. A detailed inspection of the left wing identified a critical installation error: the aileron cables had been incorrectly routed, connecting to their respective bellcrank attach points backwards. This improper aileron control installation prevented stable maneuvering.

Additional contributing factors identified during the investigation included:

  • Inadequate compliance verification by the manufacturer regarding equipment standards.
  • Insufficient preflight inspections performed by the pilot in command.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced an uncommanded roll and subsequent crash due to aileron control cables being incorrectly installed on their bellcrank attachment points.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-12-04 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Lakeland, United States of America?

A prototype aircraft crashed during its initial climb following a series of uncontrolled banks, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-12-04 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-12-04 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration N4115K, operated by Piper Aircraft Corporation, at Lakeland, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced an uncommanded roll and subsequent crash due to aileron control cables being incorrectly installed on their bellcrank attachment points.

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