Loss of control in-flight has been one of the most significant causes of fatal aircraft accidents for many years. Loss of control usually occurs because the aircraft enters a flight regime which is outside its normal envelope, usually, but not always at a high rate, thereby introducing an element of surprise for the pilots.
CAUSES
Loss of controls inflight can be caused by:
- Poor maintenance
- Hydraulic malfunction
- Mishandling
- Severe turbulence
- Wake turbulence
- Airframe damage
- Indication problem
- Ice buildup
CONSEQUENCES
Loss of controls can cause many serious problems, such as:
- Discomfort or injury to the occupants before recovering airplane control.
- Structural damage
- Fatal or serious injury to occupants due to terrain impact and/or post-impact fire.
The effects of loss of control depend on the ability of the pilots to recover from the situation. This depends on:
- The nature of the upset causing loss of control;
- The experience and ability of the pilots; and,
- The aircraft having sufficient height.