Accident Overview
On July 5, 2017, at approximately 1440 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-32-300 airplane, registration N112DE, conducted a forced landing in a field near Rushville, Indiana. The airline transport-rated pilot and two passengers were not injured. The aircraft was substantially damaged, including damage to the firewall.
Flight Details
The airplane was registered to Four Aces Escardrille LLC and operated by a private individual under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and the flight operated on a visual flight rules flight plan. The flight originated from Fort Wayne, Indiana, at 1312, and was destined for Jeffersonville, Indiana.
Sequence of Events
According to information provided by the pilot, while descending in altitude, the pilot leveled off and the engine did not respond to throttle input. The pilot selected a diversion airfield and began troubleshooting the engine. The engine would decrease power with throttle movement but would not restore power when throttle was added. After troubleshooting, the throttle could not advance past three-quarters throw, and the airplane was unable to maintain altitude. Unable to reach any nearby airfield, the pilot performed a forced landing to a field.
Examination Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed that the throttle control arm was improperly fastened, resulting in throttle arm slippage. It could not be determined if the throttle arm was improperly fastened during the last annual inspection.