Probable cause
The separation of the control grip which resulted in the pilot’s inability to maintain directional control during takeoff, and collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff, a gust of wind lifted the right wing and that his aileron control input did not respond. The pilot further stated that his control column grip separated and caused his right hand to become jammed between the column and the lower side of the instrument panel. The airplane nosed down when the grip came off completely. The right wing and right-side fuselage were substantially damaged.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA024 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 21, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rock Springs, Wyoming
- Nearest airport
- Southwest Wyoming Regional Air (KRKS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bellanca 8KCAB
- N-number
- N7654S
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1976
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.