Engine power control malfunction leads to runway excursion

No fatalities • Des Moines, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a power lever malfunction during landing approach, resulting in a runway excursion and impact with airport equipment.

What happened

While performing a landing approach, the pilot observed that the right engine failed to respond to power lever reductions, remaining stuck at a high power setting. In response to this malfunction, the pilot initiated a missed approach. During this phase, the crew encountered difficulties maintaining straight and level flight.

Following a second attempt to land, the aircraft touched down, but the pilot was unable to maintain directional control. An attempt to execute a go-around was unsuccessful, and the aircraft exited the runway at the end of the strip, eventually striking a localizer antenna. No emergency was declared, and air traffic control was not notified of the mechanical issues during the sequence of events. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries reported.

Findings

Investigation into the mechanical failure revealed that the power control cable had become detached from its anchoring point. A broken safety tab on the housing had allowed the component to unscrew, leading to the disconnection. Records indicate that approximately one month prior to the incident, maintenance had been conducted on the right engine to address a stiff power lever, during which time a mechanic had re-rigged the power cable.

Probable cause

The disconnection of the engine power control cable due to a broken safety tab and an unsecured housing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-08-19 Swearingen SA226 Metro II accident near Des Moines, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a power lever malfunction during landing approach, resulting in a runway excursion and impact with airport equipment.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-08-19 Swearingen SA226 Metro II accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-08-19 involved a Swearingen SA226 Metro II, registration N224AM, operated by Superior Aviation, at Des Moines, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The disconnection of the engine power control cable due to a broken safety tab and an unsecured housing.

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