What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-11-24 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N71329, at Lincoln, NE.

Engine Power Loss Due to Throttle Linkage Failure Results in Forced Landing (N71329)

On November 24, 1997, a Luscombe 8A (registration N71329) was involved in an aviation accident near Lincoln, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The swag ball on the throttle linkage had come off, leaving the throttle control at a low power setting. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot experienced an engine power loss shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing in a corn field. Investigation revealed a disconnected throttle linkage component.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, while climbing southbound at 600 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine power suddenly dropped to idle. Despite moving the throttle control back and forth, the pilot was unable to restore engine power.

Forced Landing

The pilot maneuvered the airplane toward a corn field for an emergency landing. During the approach, the airplane stalled above the ground and impacted the field.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the throttle control system revealed that the swag ball on the throttle linkage had come off, leaving the throttle control at a low power setting. This mechanical failure prevented the pilot from increasing engine power.

Findings

The investigation determined that the loss of engine power was due to the separation of the swag ball from the throttle linkage, which rendered the throttle control ineffective.

Probable cause

The swag ball on the throttle linkage had come off, leaving the throttle control at a low power setting.

1997-11-24: Luscombe 8A (N71329) — Lincoln, NE