Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172M near Little Rock, AR — 2009-01-22

Final reportCEN09CA140
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Date
2009-01-22
Location
Little Rock, AR, USA
Airport
KORK
Aircraft
CESSNA 172M
Registration
N20275
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to the missing nut on the bolt connecting the throttle cable and carburetor's lever arm.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that as he started his descent and reduced engine power, he felt a "bump" in the throttle. The engine's rpm dropped and the engine lost power. The pilot established his glide and elected to conduct a forced landing to a nearby airport. Additionally, the pilot reported that moving the throttle had no effect on engine power, however the engine would oscillate between idle and full power. The airplane was substantially damaged during the forced landing. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector, who traveled to the site, reported that the nut securing the throttle linkage to the carburetor's control lever was missing and the throttle linkage was found disconnected. A review of the manufacturer's maintenance manual revealed the approved parts included a bolt with a fiber-locking nut.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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