Gulfstream IV-SP Crash Investigators Eye Control Wheel Gust Lock
The Gulfstream IV-SP’s mechanical gust lock system locks the ailerons and rudder in the neutral position and the elevator in the down position.
The NTSB recovered the GIV’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders intact. (Photo: NTSB)
The NTSB recovered the GIV’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders intact. (Photo: NTSB)

The NTSB’s investigation into the Gulfstream IV-SP that crashed while taking off from Runway 11 at Bedford Hanscom Field near Boston on May 31 appears to be focusing on the twinjet’s control wheel mechanical gust-lock system, according to a preliminary accident report released by the agency today. “After the rotate callout, the cockpit voice recorder captured comments concerning aircraft control,” the report notes. All seven aboard—three crewmembers and four passengers—died in the accident.