Accident Details
Witnesses observed that after a banner snagged during a pickup by a Cessna 182, registration N8940T, there was little or no increase in engine power. The pilot immediately released the banner. The Cessna seemed to mush as the pilot attempted to avoid obstructions, but the airplane collided with a helicopter, an Enstrom F-28 registered as N550TA. Both aircraft were extensively damaged.
Post-Accident Examination
During a post-accident examination of the Cessna, the throttle linkage would not operate from the cockpit. Further investigation revealed a separation between the linkage housing and the throttle stem, as well as a permanent bend in the steel inner cable approximately 10 feet from the control knob. No other engine problem was found. During an operational check of the engine, it ran normally.