LAX93LA211

During takeoff in the tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot allowed the passenger to handle the control yoke while the pilot controlled rudders and power. Shortly after liftoff, the control yoke jammed in the full rearward position. Both occupants applied forward control yoke pressure, but without success. The pilot retarded the throttle and the airplane landed hard. Examination of the flight control system disclosed that the control yoke jammed against the aluminum pitot static line.

On May 5, 1993, at 2205 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 140, N76194, crashed shortly after lift-off from runway 27 at Ramona Airport, Ramona, California, after its elevator jammed in the up position. The pilot was conducting a local visual flight rules personal flight. The airplane, owned and operated by David Bratton, San Diego, California, sustained substantial damage. The certificated commercial pilot/flight instructor and the passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.

The pilot stated in the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB form 6120.1/2, that the passenger controlled the yoke for takeoff while the pilot controlled the rudders and power. The pilot stated that just after rotation the airplane had no elevator control but appeared to have aileron control. The pilot stated that she closed the throttle to pitch the nose down and then added power to cushion the impact. Upon impact, the right tire broke off, the right main gear collapsed and the front lower cowling and fuselage were bent.

Mr. Dan Johnson, airworthiness inspector, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), San Diego Flight Standards District Office, examined the airplane. Inspector Johnson reported that the examination disclosed that the airplane's aluminum pitot static line jammed the control yoke. This condition worsened as the pilot attempted to push the yoke forward.