Event Description
An A319 aircraft was preparing for takeoff. During the takeoff roll, the PF initiated the rotation at around 138 kt. The aircraft responded with a high pitch rate, despite limited inputs by the PF, and the pitch angle quickly reached 14°. The flight crew continued the flight and landed safely. When back on the ground, the flight crew reported the unexpected high pitch rate experienced during the takeoff. The aircraft was kept on the ground for further inspection.
Event Analysis
A weight and balance analysis was performed, but no loading or balance issue was identified.
The flight data recorder confirmed that the aircraft had a dynamic rotation with limited stick inputs, as well as an unexpected center of gravity (CG) value from the Flight Augmentation Computers (FAC). This value was significantly different from the actual CG calculated during the aircraft weighing.
Too high pitch-up elevator setting
Inspection of the aircraft flight control surfaces revealed an incorrect setting of the elevators, which were set at a higher pitch-up position than expected. It explained the aggressive pitch-up during takeoff rotation and why the aircraft was ‘trying to rotate’ before rotation speed as reported by the flight crew.
Unapproved neutral setting gauge
The investigation revealed that the elevators were erroneously set using an unapproved elevator neutral setting gauge (Above fig). The unapproved gauge was found to be a rough copy of the approved tool. The gauge used could not be correctly placed on the horizontal stabilizer skin due to its incorrect dimension and this led to an incorrect reference for the elevator neutral position being used for the setting of the elevators.
Risks when using unapproved GSE and tools
Airbus and its approved suppliers/vendors did not review, test or validate the unapproved GSE and tools. It is likely that these items may not be of the appropriate quality or may not perform their intended function in a safe and satisfactory manner. These items can cause injuries or damage to the aircraft, which may adversely impact maintenance and operations.
Source – https://safetyfirst.airbus.com/