Aircraft wing tip strike following engine power loss on takeoff

Casualties unknown • Denton, TX, US

An airplane impacted terrain during a forced landing after experiencing a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff.

What happened

During the takeoff phase, an airline transport pilot was operating the controls of the aircraft as part of a training session. At an altitude of approximately 10 and feet, the engine experienced a total loss of power. Upon the failure, the certified flight instructor took control of the aircraft.

In an attempt to avoid a steel rail fence located at the end of the runway, the flight instructor initiated a left turn. During this maneuver, the left wing tip made contact with the ground. The impact caused the airplane to rotate 180 degrees before coming to a final rest on the terrain.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft by a mechanic identified the cause of the engine power loss. The investigation found that a broken throttle control cable clamp had failed. While the airframe manufacturer specified the use of a steel clamp for this component, the part installed on the aircraft was made of aluminum.

Probable cause

The loss of engine power was caused by the failure of an aluminum throttle control cable clamp that was not the steel part specified by the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-03-01 Piper J3C-65 accident near Denton, TX?

An airplane impacted terrain during a forced landing after experiencing a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-03-01 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N92350, at Denton, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power was caused by the failure of an aluminum throttle control cable clamp that was not the steel part specified by the manufacturer.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00319. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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