Summary
The ATSB is investigating a flight control issue involving a Beech Aircraft Corp 35-B33, registered VH-NEW, at Griffith Airport, New South Wales, on 11 May 2026.
It was reported that, during the initial climb the instructor and student on board the aircraft detected a reduction of aileron and elevator effectiveness. The student held the control yoke stable while the instructor controlled the aircraft with elevator and rudder inputs and conducted a successful return to Griffith Airport. An engineering inspection later revealed a bolt had been liberated from the control torque link due to a missing split pin.
To date, the ATSB has examined recovered components, interviewed involved parties, obtained maintenance records and recorded data, and collected other relevant information.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.
Last updated:
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-078 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 11/05/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 1430 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | Griffith Airport |
| State | New South Wales |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q1 2027 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Examination and analysis |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Control issues, Flight control systems |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Beech Aircraft Corp |
|---|---|
| Model | 35-B33 |
| Registration | VH-NEW |
| Serial number | CD-615 |
| Aircraft operator | Wagga Air Centre |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 141 Recreational, private and commercial pilot flight training |
| Activity | General aviation / Recreational-Instructional flying-Instructional flying - dual |
| Departure point | Griffith Airport, New South Wales |
| Destination | Griffith Airport, New South Wales |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |