On March 29, 1989, a Cessna P206B (registration N4740F) operated by Williams, Lindy C. was involved in an aviation accident near West Palm Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the throttle control arm due to wear and poor maintenance. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, a pilot was unable to reduce power via throttle. ATC vectored the aircraft, but engine RPM dropped to idle 3 miles from runway, forcing a field landing. Investigation found a worn throttle control arm failed due to poor maintenance.
Incident Sequence
During climb to cruise altitude after takeoff, the pilot attempted to pull the throttle to reduce power but found it immovable. The pilot then advised air traffic control (ATC) and requested landing on the longest available runway. ATC vectored the aircraft to the west. When the aircraft was approximately three miles from the runway, the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) dropped to idle. The pilot subsequently landed the aircraft in a field.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the throttle control arm at the fuel controller had failed. The failure allowed vibration to cause the throttle to move to idle. According to the investigation, the component was reportedly worn and had failed due to poor maintenance.
Probable cause
Failure of the throttle control arm due to wear and poor maintenance.
What happened in the 29 Mar 1989 Cessna P206B accident near West Palm Beach, FL?
After takeoff, a pilot was unable to reduce power via throttle. ATC vectored the aircraft, but engine RPM dropped to idle 3 miles from runway, forcing a field landing. Investigation found a worn throttle control arm failed due to poor maintenance.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Mar 1989 involved a Cessna P206B, registration N4740F, operated by Williams, Lindy C., at West Palm Beach, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the throttle control arm due to wear and poor maintenance.
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