Maule MT 7-235 N627RK accident near Edon, Ohio

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain airplane control while attempting a precautionary landing after takeoff due to his incorrect setting of the rudder trim tab, which resulted in a significant turning tendency during flight.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the takeoff, the airplane experienced a left turning tendency, which continued until he had made full-right aileron and rudder inputs. The pilot decided to execute a precautionary landing in a nearby field. As the pilot initiated a descent and the airspeed increased, the left turn steepened despite the full control inputs. The airplane subsequently impacted trees along the edge of the field. A postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies with the flight control system, and the rudder trim tab was found deflected to the right. The cockpit rudder trim control was positioned consistent with the observed trim tab deflection. Right trim tab deflection causes a left rudder control surface deflection in flight and was consistent with the left turning tendency reported by the pilot.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14LA456 for the full record.