On April 14, 2011, a PIPER PA-28-180 was involved in an aviation accident near Latrobe, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Maintenance personnel’s failure to properly secure the throttle cable to the fuel servo. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial pilot and flight instructor experienced an engine power loss during an ILS practice approach. The aircraft landed on a hill, substantially damaging the wings and landing gear. Investigation revealed a loose throttle cable from the fuel servo arm.
Accident Details
A commercial pilot, accompanied by a flight instructor acting as a passenger, was practicing an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach. While on the glideslope, the pilot attempted to add engine power but noted no response. The engine revolutions per minute (rpm) remained at 1600. The pilot declared an emergency with the air traffic control tower and began searching for an alternate off-field landing site. Once a suitable location was identified, the pilot landed on a hill. The landing resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft's wings and landing gear.
Investigation
Postaccident examination conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed that the throttle cable had come loose from the arm on the fuel servo. A review of the airplane's maintenance records indicated that the aircraft had undergone an engine change 32 hours prior to the accident.
What happened in the 14 Apr 2011 PIPER PA-28-180 accident near Latrobe, PA?
A commercial pilot and flight instructor experienced an engine power loss during an ILS practice approach. The aircraft landed on a hill, substantially damaging the wings and landing gear. Investigation revealed a loose throttle cable from the fuel servo arm.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Apr 2011 PIPER PA-28-180 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Apr 2011 involved a PIPER PA-28-180, at Latrobe, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Maintenance personnel’s failure to properly secure the throttle cable to the fuel servo.
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