Pilot Debrief

Couvillion S-17 near Toledo, OH — 2011-07-01

Final reportCEN11LA455
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Date
2011-07-01
Location
Toledo, OH, USA
Airport
TDZ
Aircraft
Couvillion S-17
Registration
N433GC
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The loss of control during initial climb for undetermined reasons, which resulted in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he found no discrepancies during the preflight inspection and that the engine run-up and before-takeoff checks were normal. Immediately after takeoff, the airplane entered an uncommanded right turn. The pilot was unable to keep the airplane from turning to the right as it climbed to about 200 to 300 feet above the ground. He pulled the throttle to idle and landed the airplane in a field. The touchdown was hard, and the airplane impacted a rock pile during the landing roll. Postaccident examination revealed that the right rudder pedal was sheared off and that the right rudder cable had slack in it and was twisted around the right rudder horn attachment fitting. If this twist had existing during the flight, it could have caused the uncommanded right turn; however, it is likely that the cable twisted around the rudder horn during the impact when the right rudder pedal separated and allowed the cable to go slack. Additionally, when the cable was straightened, it was noted to be the proper length, and rudder cable continuity was confirmed. Flight control cable continuity was also confirmed from the flight controls to the ailerons and the elevator. No mechanical discrepancy was noted that would have resulted in the uncontrolled right turn.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff upon initial loss of control after liftoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents8

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