The pilot completed two successful takeoffs and landings in the traffic pattern at the airport in Elkwood, Virginia, and was taking off for a third time when the accident occurred.
After he applied takeoff power, the Cessna 172 accelerated forward for less than 75 feet when the pilot’s seat slid back to the aftmost position.
The pilot let go of the control yoke to prevent the airplane from pitching upward, but as the airplane continued to accelerate, he was unable to reach the rudder pedals and brakes.
He was eventually able to reach the throttle and reduced it to the idle position.
The airplane departed the left side of the runway and came to rest in a ditch, resulting in substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and elevator.
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the pilot’s seat was not correctly installed and that the front left seat rail guide was not engaged with the rail. This resulted in the seat being positioned too high and prevented complete engagement of the seat adjustment rod.
When the seat was adjusted, its position would lock, but when sufficient aft force was applied to the back of the seat, the adjustment rod would disengage and allow the seat to move.
The pilot told investigators that he removed and reinstalled the seat to perform preventative maintenance.
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to correctly reinstall the airplane’s left seat, resulting in the movement of the seat during the takeoff roll, and the subsequent loss of control and runway excursion.
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This August 2024 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
I’ve done this a couple of times, but look to be sure that the roller is in the track. It is difficult to get the left front roller in the track, since the corner of the seat hits the side wall panel, requiring a lot of forcing, [ and some nasty words ]
If the opening in the seat track was 3/4 inch back it would be much easier.
Also, having only one pin to lock into the track can be a problem if the track wears. Having a second pin, maybe on the right side or a rear roller would be a lot safer.
I have a secondary seat stop in the left rear track to not allow the seat to slide past where I can reach the controls. But it makes getting in and out of the seat a bit more tough, especially of my ‘older’ body.!!
Just curious, this has never happened to me, but I think about it on my checklist. Could or did the pilot unfasten their seatbelt and try to scoot up to the controls to abort. Just asking.
I check this every flight. is seat locked in? Yep.
Rookie mistake. Anybody who flies a 172 knows to check their seat is secure before takeoff. It becomes second nature. I check it an average of five times before I get to the runway. C’mon!
I believe seat rails are not on Part 43