​AIRCRAFT MECHANICS

The NTSB reiterates the importance of mandating inspections of aircraft on a regular basis and that mechanics take them seriously. Mistakes made while performing aircraft maintenance and inspection procedures have led to in-flight emergencies and fatal accidents. Mechanics need to be thorough and follow manufacturers’ instructions to ensure that work is completed as specified. “System or component failures are among the most common defining events for fatal accidents across various sectors of general aviation (GA)” (NTSB).

 

An airline transport pilot was killed during a position flight after the aircraft he was flying entered an uncontrolled descent to the ground following an in-flight separation of the stabilator trim pushrod. The investigation found that the nut that secured the pushrod to the trim tab had backed out during flight; neither the nut nor its cotter pin were located. Although the aircraft had undergone an inspection about 73 flight hours before the accident, the investigation found evident of prolonged inadequate maintenance.

 

If improper maintenance goes unnoticed, all it takes is a catastrophic accident to open the eyes of the mechanic and the NTSB, but all too late. But corrective action from the NTSB and more elaborate training for mechanics helps to prevent future mishaps that may take the lives of more innocent people.