Casualties unknown

Throttle Cable Failure Leads to Forced Landing for Aerial Applicator (N5550G)

Preu, IN, US

On August 7, 1988, a Cessna A188B (registration N5550G) was involved in an aviation accident near Preu, IN. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aerial applicator experienced a total throttle cable failure during an application swath run. The pilot executed a forced landing in an adjacent crop field, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Incident Overview

During an application swath run, an aerial applicator experienced a total failure of the throttle cable. The engine subsequently went to idle RPM. The pilot executed a forced landing in an adjacent crop field. The aircraft received substantial damage.

Inspection and Investigation

The aircraft and engine had received an annual inspection 125 hours prior to the failure. Post-accident investigation revealed that the throttle cable had broken. According to the pilot, the engine originally had a spring, sleeve, and bracket assembly designed to provide power in the event of a cable failure. However, these items had been removed from the engine by persons unknown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26481. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.