Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary DCA04IA018

Bangor, MA, USA

Aircraft #1

N734EK

Embraer 135

Analysis

American Eagle Embraer 135, N734EK, experienced an uncommanded rudder deflection after takeoff from Bangor, Maine. The flight crew returned to Bangor and landed the airplane uneventfully. There were 35 passengers and 3 crew members on board. Inspection of the airplane after the incident revealed a failed rudder interconnect rod. Examination of the failed components in the NTSB Materials Lab revealed that the internal threads of the interconnect rod were worn.

Factual Information

American Eagle Embraer 135, N734EK, experienced an uncommanded rudder deflection after takeoff from Bangor, Maine. The flight crew returned to Bangor and landed the airplane uneventfully. There were 35 passengers and 3 crew members on board. Inspection of the airplane after the incident revealed a failed rudder interconnect rod.

Probable Cause and Findings

Severe wear of the internal threads of the rudder interconnection contol rod which led to disengagement.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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