Cessna Citation 550 Bravo, Bethany, Okla., May 20, 2002–The NTSB determined that the cause of N13VP’s runway overrun during an aborted takeoff from Wiley Post Airport was the anomalous elevator trim system and the pilot’s failure to note its improper setting before takeoff. The aircraft was substantially damaged when it hit two fences, but there were no fatalities or serious injuries among the five passengers and ATP pilot.
The pilot said he experienced no anomalies during preflight and taxi. He decided to abort the takeoff during the takeoff roll, when the nosegear did not come off the runway, with power at idle and maximum braking. He veered to the right to miss the antennas at the end of the runway.
Tire skid marks on the runway measured 1,765 feet. The elevator trim system was found to be 12 degrees out of trim in the nose-down direction. The flight manual directs the pilot to inspect the right elevator and trim tab during the exterior inspection to ensure the elevator trim tab position matches its indicator.
During post-accident inspection, the elevator trim wheel wobbled when it was rotated. Inspection of the wheel grooves showed evidence of a previous repair
with an epoxy-type substance. In addition, worn grooves were visible. The bolt that secures the trim wheel assembly had a bend in its shank.
The airplane was registered to Airlease and was operated by Avalon Correctional Services, both of Oklahoma City, and was en route to Greeley, Colo.