Pilot Debrief

Ercoupe 415 near Torrance, CA — 2020-02-25

Final reportWPR20LA094
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Date
2020-02-25
Location
Torrance, CA, USA
Airport
TOA
Aircraft
Ercoupe 415
Registration
N3437H
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The partial loss of power due to a malfunction of the throttle cable, which limited movement of the throttle body.

NTSB narrative

While the pilot was conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings, the airplane’s engine lost partial power about 200 ft above ground level and began surging. The pilot performed a 90° left turn to land on a taxiway. After touchdown, the airplane veered left and collided with two parked airplanes. Examination revealed that manipulation of the throttle control in the cockpit did not correspond with the complete butterfly valve deflection in the throttle body. The limited motion of the throttle cable was likely the result of the movement of the cable’s outer housing (sheath) and/or loose rigging resulting in the cable bowing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after initial engine power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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