Casualties unknown

Go-Around Thwarted by Disconnected Throttle Linkage (N2720V)

Temecula, CA, US

On July 24, 1998, a Beech 35 (registration N2720V) was involved in an aviation accident near Temecula, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A partial loss of engine power due to a disconnected throttle linkage, which was the result of an inadequate maintenance installation/inspection. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around at low altitude, the engine lost power due to a disconnected throttle linkage. The pilot maneuvered toward a street but impacted terrain approximately half a mile from the airport.

Accident Overview

The pilot initiated a go-around at an altitude between 50 and 75 feet above ground level because the aircraft was carrying excessive airspeed. As the pilot applied full throttle, the engine unexpectedly reduced to idle power. The pilot then turned the aircraft toward a nearby street, but the airplane subsequently impacted terrain approximately half a mile from the departure airport.

Engine Examination

Following the accident, a teardown inspection of the engine was conducted by the Safety Board. The examination revealed that the throttle linkage was disconnected. Specifically, the bolt that secures the throttle cable to the throttle control rod end bearing was found protruding from the extension sleeve by only two threads. This condition prevented proper throttle control.

Maintenance History

According to available records, the aircraft had flown only about one hour since its annual inspection earlier in the same month. No mechanical issues had been reported by the pilot prior to the accident sequence.

Probable Cause

The investigation did not assign a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10641. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.