Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
A failed bracket attaching the throttle linkage, which resulted in the inability to control power, and unsuitable terrain for a successful forced landing. Factors include soft terrain with high vegetation.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On June 17, 1998, approximately 1100 Pacific daylight time, a CASA BU-131 sustained substantial damage during a forced landing near Harrisburg, Oregon, after a loss of power while en route from Hillsboro, Oregon, to Cottage Grove, Oregon. The private pilot and his passenger were uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. There was no report of an ELT activating.
The pilot stated that he throttled back to descend. At about 1500 feet, he opened the throttle and got no response; the engine remained at idle. At 1000 feet, he was committed to land and chose a 40 acre field rather than attempt a landing on the highway. He was down and rolling when the airplane nosed over in soft terrain and tall rye grass.
FAA inspectors determined that a bracket attaching the throttle linkage broke, causing the pilot to be unable to modulate engine power. The airplane nosed over, damaging the upper wing and vertical fin.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# SEA98LA103