NTSB: Improperly Installed Elevator Cable Hardware Caused CubCrafters Carbon Cub Crash in Ogallala, Nebraska

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) determined that the improper installation of elevator control cable hardware caused an accident involving a CubCrafters Carbon Cub at Ogallala, Nebraska. The accident report is dated October 2024.

The pilot said he performed a flight control check before the flight and found the controls operated normally. During the initial climb, when the airplane was about 30 to 50 feet above ground level, the elevator control went slack. Unable to regain elevator control, the pilot adjusted engine power to try to regain control of pitch, but the airplane descended and struck the runway. It skidded off the runway and a post-impact fire followed. The pilot sustained minor injuries and exited the airplane before it was destroyed by fire.

A post-accident examination found that the top elevator control cable was not attached to the elevator horn, and the securing bolt and nut were not located. The lower elevator control cable remained attached by its bolt, but its securing nut was not located.

The airplane was originally assembled in 2021 and inspected by an FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative. It later underwent several annual condition inspections, including one by an Airframe & Powerplant mechanic other than the owner/builder. The most recent condition inspection was performed by the owner/builder about nine months before the accident and would have included inspection of all flight control surfaces. A review of the maintenance logs did not reveal any maintenance related to the elevator.

The NTSB's probable cause: the improper installation of the elevator control cable hardware, which resulted in the separation of the elevator control cable and a loss of pitch control in flight.