Amateur-built MIGLET N414US accident near Corning, California

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power during initial climb due to a loose set screw, which allowed the throttle cable rig within the connector to slip.

NTSB analysis

The airline transport pilot, who was also the owner/builder of the experimental, amateur-built airplane, was conducting a personal local flight. The pilot reported that, after taking off and while the airplane was between about 100 and 200 ft above ground level (agl) during the initial climb, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The engine power continued to decrease as he climbed the airplane to 300 ft agl. The pilot then chose to land on the remaining available runway. During the landing roll, the airplane's left main landing gear impacted a fence at the end of the runway, which resulted in the separation of the landing gear and substantial damage to the left wing.

A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that a small set screw that actuates the throttle had become loose, which allowed the throttle cable rig within the connector to slip and resulted in the subsequent partial loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15LA162 for the full record.