Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172R near Culebra, PR — 2012-05-07

Final reportERA12CA325
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Date
2012-05-07
Location
Culebra, PR, USA
Airport
TJCP
Aircraft
CESSNA 172R
Registration
N24461
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to remove the flight control lock before takeoff.

NTSB narrative

After doing an engine runup the pilot taxied onto the runway and started his takeoff roll. During the attempted takeoff, the pilot realized that the control wheel would not move aft when he tried to pull back on it. He saw that the flight control lock was still installed, so he attempted to remove it but was not successful. The airplane was approaching the airport perimeter fence, so the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane impacted the fence, crossed a road, and struck trees. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the airplane’s wings and fuselage. Checklist procedures for the airplane required that the control wheel lock for the airplane be removed during the preflight inspection, and that the flight controls be checked prior to takeoff to ensure free and correct operation before takeoff. However, during a postaccident interview, the pilot stated that he did not use the checklist.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

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