The airplane was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain short of the runway at about 1455 Mountain time. The solo pilot received serious injuries; visual conditions prevailed. The pilot reported losing pitch authority while in cruise flight at 12,500 msl. He maneuvered the airplane to a nearby airport in an effort to land. However, when he lowered the landing gear, while on final to the runway, the airplane abruptly pitched over and collided with terrain. Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that both the left and right ruddervators had separated from the stabilizer assembly during the flight.
May 2, 2007 in Kayenta, Ariz., Beech V35B
The airplane was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain short of the runway at about 1455 Mountain time. The solo pilot received serious injuries; visual conditions prevailed. The pilot reported losing pitch authority while in cruise flight at 12,500 msl. He maneuvered the airplane to a nearby airport in an effort to land.
Key Takeaways:
- An airplane crashed short of the runway, substantially damaged, and the solo pilot was seriously injured after reporting a loss of pitch authority during cruise flight.
- While attempting an emergency landing, the aircraft abruptly pitched over upon lowering the landing gear.
- Post-accident examination revealed both ruddervators had separated from the stabilizer assembly during the flight, consistent with the reported loss of pitch control.
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