Pilot Debrief

VANS VANS RV-8 near ATLANTA, GA — 2021-09-13

Final reportERA21LA365
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Date
2021-09-13
Location
ATLANTA, GA, USA
Airport
FFC
Aircraft
VANS VANS RV-8
Registration
N798RT
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A loss of directional control and subsequent runway excursion resulting as a result of the inadvertent rudder input by the passenger.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during landing rollout, the airplane began to veer to the left and he attempted to counter with a right rudder input. He stated that the rudder pedals seemed jammed, and the airplane continued to veer to the left side of the runway. He quickly applied right brake, but it was not enough, and the airplane departed the runway and entered a marshy area, which resulted in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies prior to the accident. During a telephone interview, the pilot stated that his passenger was experienced a leg cramp and was depressed the left rudder pedal during the landing roll. A statement received from the passenger confirmed the leg cramp.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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