Probable cause
The partial loss of power due to a malfunction of the throttle cable, which limited movement of the throttle body.
NTSB analysis
While the pilot was conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings, the airplane’s engine lost partial power about 200 ft above ground level and began surging. The pilot performed a 90° left turn to land on a taxiway. After touchdown, the airplane veered left and collided with two parked airplanes.
Examination revealed that manipulation of the throttle control in the cockpit did not correspond with the complete butterfly valve deflection in the throttle body. The limited motion of the throttle cable was likely the result of the movement of the cable’s outer housing (sheath) and/or loose rigging resulting in the cable bowing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20LA094 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 25, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Torrance, California
- Nearest airport
- Zamperini Field (TOA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ercoupe 415
- N-number
- N3437H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.