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NTSB Report
January 22, 2009 · Cessna 172M · N20275
Little Rock, AR
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 22, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Little Rock, AR
Aircraft
Cessna 172M
Tail Number
N20275
Operator
Ben Kittler
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA140
The pilot stated that as he started his descent and reduced engine power, he felt a "bump" in the throttle. The engine's rpm dropped and the engine lost power. The pilot established his glide and elected to conduct a forced landing to a nearby airport. Additionally, the pilot reported that moving the throttle had no effect on engine power, however the engine would oscillate between idle and full power. The airplane was substantially damaged during the forced landing. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector, who traveled to the site, reported that the nut securing the throttle linkage to the carburetor's control lever was missing and the throttle linkage was found disconnected. A review of the manufacturer's maintenance manual revealed the approved parts included a bolt with a fiber-locking nut.
NTSB Probable Cause
The loss of engine power due to the missing nut on the bolt connecting the throttle cable and carburetor's lever arm.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that as he started his descent and reduced engine power, he felt a "bump" in the throttle. The engine's rpm dropped and the engine lost power. The pilot established his glide and elected to conduct a forced landing to a nearby airport. Additionally, the pilot reported that moving the throttle had no effect on engine power, however the engine would oscillate between idle and full power. The airplane was substantially damaged during the forced landing. A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who traveled to the site reported that the nut securing the throttle linkage to the carburetor's control lever was missing and the throttle linkage was found disconnected. A review of the manufacturer's maintenance manual revealed the approved parts included a bolt with a fiber-locking nut.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:50 CST
Nearest AirportNorth Little Rock (0nm)
Runway23
Runway Length5002 ft
Runway Width75 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna 172M
Tail NumberN20275
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorBen Kittler
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 SERIES · Reciprocating · 180
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 69 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDusk
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point50 / 36 C
Altimeter29.85 inHg
Weather SourcePILO