Pitts S-1S, G-EEPJ, 10 August 2013

Steering link failure, loss of control during taxi, Leicester, 10 August 2013.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 10 August 2013
• Aircraft type: Pitts S-1S
• Location: Leicester Airport
• Registration: G-EEPJ

Pitts S-1S, G-EEPJ

Summary:

The aircraft developed an uncommanded turn to the right as its speed reduced during a landing roll. The pilot applied left rudder to counter the turn with no effect and the right turn continued and accelerated to the point where the tailwheel unlocked. The aircraft then rapidly pirouetted clockwise through 180º, collapsing the landing gear and striking the left wing on the runway. The pilot was uninjured and vacated the aircraft. The loss of control of the tailwheel was probably caused by detachment of the left side ring which connects the chain and spring from the rudder to the tailwheel steering T-bar.

Bulletin correction:

A correction was issued concerning this report in the March 2015 Bulletin.

Download amended report:

Pitts S-1S G-EEPJ 11-13.pdf (198.93 kb)

Download correction only:

Pitts S-1S, G-EEPJ Correction 03-16

Download glossary of abbreviations:

Glossary of abbreviations

Published 10 December 2014