Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing After Throttle Disconnect (N9956M)

Bethel, AK, US

On May 29, 1998, a Cessna 207 (registration N9956M) was involved in an aviation accident near Bethel, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The throttle arm disconnecting from the throttle linkage to the engine as a result of inadequate inspection by company maintenance personnel. 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

During climb to 2,000 feet, an engine lost total power. The airplane nosed over in marshy tundra. Inspection found throttle arm and bushing wear; the control lever had disconnected.

Accident Description

During climb to cruise, while passing 2,000 feet mean sea level, the engine lost total power. The airplane subsequently nosed onto its back during the forced landing in marshy tundra.

Postaccident Inspection

Examination after the accident revealed wear between the throttle arm and the connecting hardware bushing. The throttle control lever had disconnected from the throttle arm.

Maintenance History

Service Bulletin SEB95-15R1, titled "Throttle Lever Inspection," required a visual inspection for wear between the arm and bushing every 50 hours or 12 months. Company mechanics had complied with this bulletin 56 hours, 163 hours, and 268 hours prior to the accident. The engine had been newly overhauled and installed 334 hours before the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09979. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.