Aircraft
Final Report: Maintenance Error Resulted in Asymmetric Flaps
MITSUBISHI MU-2B-35, HILTON HEAD, S.C., AUG.

MITSUBISHI MU-2B-35, HILTON HEAD, S.C., AUG. 1, 2001–The NTSB determined that the probable cause of the accident was the improper maintenance/installation and inadequate inspection of the airplane’s flap torque-tube joints during routine maintenance by company maintenance personnel. This resulted in the right-flap torque-tube assembly coupler becoming detached and the flaps developing asymmetrical lift when extended, which resulted in an uncontrolled roll, a descent and impact with a tree during approach to land.

Mitsubishi N1VY was on final approach to land at Hilton Head Airport (HXD) when it was seen by witnesses to suddenly roll to the right, descend and hit trees at about the 70-foot level, killing the pilot. A fire broke out when it hit the ground. N1VY’s debris field extended about 370 feet.

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