Cessna 210 Centurion / Turbo Centurion 210C; 210D
Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Landed As Precaution; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft; Weather
On initial climb passing through an altitude of approximately 700 - 1;000 FT AGL; I noticed a hesitation through the control yoke while manipulating the ailerons. This hesitation was only present upon initial deflection from the centered position and did not affect any controls aside from the ailerons. Upon instruction from the Tower to contact Departure; I asked the Tower for permission to enter a right downwind and return for landing. When inquired about the nature of my return; I stated the aircraft flight controls were 'sticking.' I believe an emergency was declared on my behalf and I was cleared to land on the same runway previously departed from. I used minimum control deflection needed to execute a normal approach and landing where I was followed back to the local FBO by emergency vehicles. Outside temperature was slightly below freezing. Aircraft was placed in a hangar for approximately one hour fifteen minutes prior to flight. Problem was only discovered upon initial climb. No abnormalities were discovered during pre-flight; aileron deflection during taxi or full control manipulation after run-up prior to takeoff. Aircraft was placed in a hangar for the remainder of that day in addition to another day. Flight controls were tested again after a period of approximately 36 hours with no abnormalities detected. Later; an A&P Mechanic was also consulted regarding the abnormality. I believe that despite a thorough pre-flight inspection along with a visual and tactile inspection of the aircraft fuselage and control surfaces; residual water migrated to the control cables or pulleys. This water was not detected until the aircraft reached an altitude more conducive for freezing. As the residual water began to freeze on the controls; a 'sticking' or hesitation manifested when trying to deflect the ailerons from the centered position. This theory was deemed likely by an A&P Mechanic. I will remain vigilant about the potential hazards of cold weather operations and continue to educate myself using faasafety.gov in addition to participating in online safety seminars. To prevent a problem like this from happening again; I will place extra emphasis on the amount of time aircraft spend in the hangar in relation to outside air temperature.
C210 pilot experiences aileron 'sticking' shortly after takeoff in freezing conditions and elects to return to the departure airport. Ice is assumed to be the cause of the problem and the aircraft is placed in a warm hanger for 36 hours and no further problems are noted.