SEA94LA243

The pilot reported that while on final approach for landing, she experienced resistance in the flight controls and was unable to level the airplane for touchdown. The airplane landed hard and bounced before coming to a stop. During an inspection of the flight controls, there was no evidence found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction.

On September 17, 1994, at 1715 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N738ET, landed hard and bounced at the Eastsound Airport, Orcas, Washington. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private pilot and her passenger were not injured. The flight had originated from Everett, Washington, on September 17, 1994, at 1640, for the personal flight.

During a telephone interview, the pilot reported that while on final approach for landing, she experienced resistance in the flight controls and was unable to level the airplane for touchdown. The airplane landed hard and bounced down the runway before coming to a stop.

Before the airplane was retrieved, it was found that the control yoke would not move. After the airplane was moved, the control cables were inspected for continuity. It was found that the rudder and elevator cables were attached at their respective rear fittings and the cables were traced forward to the control yoke. The aileron cables were also attached to their respective fittings and traced to the control yoke. There were no restrictions found to this point. Impact damage was noted to the firewall, cockpit floor boards and to the brace between the firewall and the instrument panel. Further inspection found that the brace was bent and binding the movement of the control yoke. Once the brace was bent out of the way, full movement of the control yoke was established.