Primary finding
Probable cause
A fatigue crack in the right elevator torque tube resulting in the disconnection of the elevator torque tubes and subsequent loss of airplane control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During takeoff climb, the airplane went into a left bank. Pilot control input would not correct the banking. The airplane made two complete circles and then impacted terrain about 1/4 mile past the end of the departed runway. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the elevator torque tubes, connected by a bolt, were disconnected. The right elevator was jammed in the down position. Examination of the torque tubes revealed the right elevator torque tube had a fatigue crack around the bolt hole area allowing it to disconnect from the left elevator torque tube.
Source record
Factual narrative
On December 14, 1994, at 1709 eastern standard time, a homebuilt Varieze, N59MW, impacted terrain shortly after takeoff from runway 10 at the Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport. The pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was destroyed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The local personnel flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The pilot reported that during takeoff climb the airplane banked left and surface control inputs would not correct the banking. He stated the airplane made two complete turns before it impacted terrain. The airplane crashed about 1/4 of a mile north of the airport. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the elevator torque tubes, connected by a bolt, were disconnected. The right elevator was jammed in the down position. Examination of the torque tubes revealed the right elevator torque tube had a fatigue crack around the bolt hole area. -