How Thorough is Your Test Flight Pre-flight?

Maintenance had just completed a check that required a wing removal on the DC-3. As the test-flight crew levelled the aircraft after takeoff, they used aileron trim to correct a left-wing-heavy condition, but trimming only made the problem worse. They immediately reversed the trim selection and turned for home, landing safely.

Post-flight investigation revealed that the trim was operating in reverse — not the first, nor probably the last time for “Murphy” to strike.

Originally Published: 4/1996
Original Article: Just Briefly - How Thorough is Your Test Flight Pre-flight?