Controls Free and Correct
We are taught to check that the controls are free and correct on every flight. Some pilots skip that step.
Airplane Misrigging Lessons Learned From a Close Call
What needs to be added to post-maintenance checklists is to check the operation of trim if any maintenance is done on the controls.
The NTSB found that the crash of a Gulfstream in Massachusetts was due to the pilot’s taking off with the gust lock engaged.
The airplane was equipped with a mechanical gust lock system, which could be utilized to lock the ailerons and rudder in the neutral position, and the elevator in the down position to protect the control surfaces from wind gusts while parked. A mechanical interlock was incorporated in the gust lock handle mechanism to restrict the movement of the throttle levers to a minimal amount (6-percent) when the gust lock handle was engaged.
The FDR data revealed the elevator control surface position during the taxi and takeoff was consistent with its position if the gust lock was engaged. The gust lock handle, located on the right side of the control pedestal, was found in the forward (OFF) position, and the elevator gust lock latch was found not engaged.
Fatal plane crash – DH4 Caribou with controls locked
Two test pilots on board, and no one checked the controls free and clear before starting t/o roll. It hurts to watch this video, but it’s a dramatic reminder that there really are good reasons to do a thorough preflight and to make sure the controls are free.
Control lock contributes to Cessna 172 crash
The pilot stated that in preparation for a night flight from Portsmouth, N.H., he flew earlier that same evening. He inspected the Cessna 172S and noted the control lock was not installed in the control column. While searching for the control lock he located a “straight pin” in a seatback pocket and installed it. … He taxied to the run-up area where he performed the before takeoff checklist, but did not check that the flight controls were free and clear for fear of having his tablet knocked off the yoke mount.
Early investigation of fatal crash points to control lock issue
Although the report makes no specific finding as to the cause of the crash, it indicates the control lock pin may not have been removed from the cockpit control column prior to takeoff.