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Casualties unknown

Throttle cable slip causes power loss during climb (N65105)

Gardner, MA, US

On August 18, 1989, a Cessna 172P (registration N65105) operated by Peter Erik Thomassen was involved in an aviation accident near Gardner, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during climb, which resulted in an engine flameout due to a worn throttle arm that allowed the throttle cable to slip without throttle movement. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced engine power loss during initial climb after a normal run-up. The aircraft sustained damage during an emergency landing due to a worn throttle arm allowing the cable to slip.

What happened

The pilot conducted a standard pre-takeoff run-up and reported no irregularities with the aircraft systems. Following lift-off, the aircraft entered its initial climb phase when the engine began to lose power unexpectedly. The pilot initiated an emergency landing procedure to manage the situation.

The investigation

A subsequent mechanical examination of the airplane revealed a specific failure in the throttle control system. The throttle arm was found to be worn, which allowed the throttle cable to slip without corresponding movement of the throttle mechanism. This mechanical failure prevented the engine from receiving the necessary fuel and air mixture during the climb.

Findings

The investigation identified fuel starvation as the primary factor due to the inability to maintain throttle position. The worn throttle arm permitted the control cable to disengage effectively, leading to a loss of power. The aircraft sustained damage during the resulting emergency landing.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during climb, which resulted in an engine flameout due to a worn throttle arm that allowed the throttle cable to slip without throttle movement.
Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Aug 1989 Cessna 172P accident near Gardner, MA?

A pilot experienced engine power loss during initial climb after a normal run-up. The aircraft sustained damage during an emergency landing due to a worn throttle arm allowing the cable to slip.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Aug 1989 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N65105, operated by Peter Erik Thomassen, at Gardner, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during climb, which resulted in an engine flameout due to a worn throttle arm that allowed the throttle cable to slip without throttle movement.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29242. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.