The FAA is investigating the report of a control wheel separation on a Mooney M20C aircraft due to fatigue cracks in the control shaft or control wheel attachment hub. This failure might result in momentary loss of control of the aircraft until the pilot or copilot is able to regain control with the second control wheel. This may reduce the capability of the airplane or the ability of the crew to cope with adverse operating conditions to the extent that there may be a significant reduction in safety margins, especially in certain phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.
The FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service recently issued an Airworthiness Concern Sheet (ACS) to highlight this concern and the ongoing investigation including a photograph of the failed part. The FAA is recommending operators visually inspect the control wheel and provide information including description of damage, available photos, airplane serial number, and time in service since installation.
To view the Airworthiness Concern Sheet please select this link or paste the address into your browser: https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2024/Sep/2024-09-25_Mooney_Control_Wheel.pdf
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Aircraft Certification Service through Jacob Fitch at Jacob.Fitch@faa.gov.
