Casualties unknown

Landing Incident: Throttle Control Unresponsive, Aircraft Slides Off Runway (N93977)

Clearwater, FL, US

On February 26, 1987, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N93977) was involved in an aviation accident near Clearwater, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot attempted to reduce throttle for landing but the control did not respond. After landing, braking failed to stop the aircraft, which slid off the runway into a ditch. Post-accident examination found the throttle controls functioning normally, with the throttle and trim controls located 2 inches apart and similar in appearance and feel.

Incident Details

A private pilot was conducting a landing when the throttle control did not reduce engine power as expected. The pilot proceeded to land and subsequently attempted to stop the aircraft using the brakes. However, the aircraft slid off the end of the runway and entered a ditch.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the throttle controls was performed. The examination revealed that the throttle controls functioned normally. It was noted that the throttle control and the trim control are positioned 2 inches apart on the instrument panel and share a similar look and feel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 1987 Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C accident near Clearwater, FL?

A private pilot attempted to reduce throttle for landing but the control did not respond. After landing, braking failed to stop the aircraft, which slid off the runway into a ditch. Post-accident examination found the throttle controls functioning normally, with the throttle and trim controls located 2 inches apart…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 1987 involved an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C, registration N93977, at Clearwater, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30294. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.