During The Takeoff Roll Her Seat Suddenly Slid Backward, And She Was No Longer Able To Reach The Pedals

Location: Camdenton, MO Accident Number: CEN24LA315
Date & Time: July 11, 2024, 10:00 Local Registration: N23JK
Aircraft: Grumman American Avn. Corp. AA-5B Injuries: 3 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On July 11, 2024, about 1000 central daylight time, a Grumman AA-5B airplane, N23JK, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident. The pilot and two passengers were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that before starting the engine, she adjusted her seat to the appropriate position to reach the flight controls, then wiggled the seat to ensure it was secure. After taxiing to the runway she wiggled her seat again and prepared for takeoff. During the takeoff roll her seat suddenly slid backward, and she was no longer able to reach the pedals. The airplane departed the side of the runway and came to rest in a ravine.

Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the engine mount, fuselage, and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot’s seat tracks were the newer heat treated version. There were wear marks on the seat lock pin tip indicative of previous alignment issues. The spring that held the lock pins in place was installed incorrectly and the corresponding push pull rod was bent. This incorrect spring placement would shorten the travel of the spring and reduce the tension on the lock pins. The seat brackets that attach to the spar exhibited worn and elongated bolt holes, which created a misalignment of the seat support.

The most recent annual inspection was completed on January 8, 2024, at an aircraft total time of 4,423.7 hours. The logbook entry did not mention the pilot’s seat tracks or corresponding hardware. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov