Taylorcraft Aviation F19 N3681T accident near Montgomery, Alabama

Probable cause

The pilot's improper loading of personal belongings which resulted in rudder pedal interference.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated all flight controls were free and working properly before and during the flight, until the turn from base to final over the western end of runway 10 at the Montgomery Regional Airport. He had a pair of shoes on the right floorboard tucked in against the seat when he departed his departure airport. During the flight the shoes got looped around the left rudder pedal on the right side of the cockpit and jammed the left rudder peddle, preventing any movement. During the turn from base to final the airplane entered a left "skid" and he attempted to correct with right aileron. The airplane's speed had decreased to 70 mph. The pilot applied harder aileron to the right which resulted in a slip and rapid lose of altitude. He said the airplane was now heading for buildings on the north side of runway 10. He aimed that airplane at a chain link fence and struck it between the fence posts. The pilot opened the cabin door and walked away from the airplane with minor scratches.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08CA126 for the full record.