Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to the missing nut on the bolt connecting the throttle cable and carburetor's lever arm.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA140 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 22, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- North Little Rock (KORK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Cessna 172M
- N-number
- N20275
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.