On March 1, 1999, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N92350) was involved in an aviation accident near Denton, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The total loss of engine power on takeoff resulting from the failure of an incorrect throttle control cable clamp, which was installed by an unknown person. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff, an airplane experienced total engine power loss at about 100 feet. The flight instructor took control, turned to avoid a fence, but the left wing tip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to rotate and come to rest. A mechanic found a broken throttle cable clamp made of aluminum instead of the specified steel.
Accident Overview
An airplane was conducting a takeoff when the engine lost all power at an altitude of approximately 100 feet. The airline transport pilot receiving instruction was handling the controls at the time of the power loss. The certified flight instructor promptly took over control of the aircraft.
Evasive Maneuver
To avoid a steel rail fence at the end of the runway, the flight instructor initiated a left turn. During this turn, the left wing tip contacted the ground. The airplane then yawed 180 degrees and came to rest.
Post-Accident Examination
A mechanic who inspected the airplane determined that the loss of engine power was caused by a broken throttle control cable clamp. The broken clamp was made of aluminum, whereas the airframe manufacturer had specified a steel clamp for that component.
Findings
The forced landing followed a total loss of engine power on takeoff. The subsequent ground impact occurred when the wing tip struck the terrain during a low-altitude turn. The broken clamp was identified as the source of the power loss.