Pilot Makes Safe Landing After Throttle Jams Open
The pilot of a single-engine plane bound from Burbank to Northern California was forced to make an emergency landing at Van Nuys Airport after his throttle jammed open, authorities said.
The pilot was able to slow the plane sufficiently to land safely.
A Federal Aviation Administration spokeswoman said the Piper Cherokee 28 developed the mechanical problem at 3:35 p.m., shortly after takeoff from Burbank Airport.
The pilot, who was headed to Santa Clara County with one passenger aboard, quickly diverted to Van Nuys Airport to take advantage of the long runway.
As television captured the plane’s approach, Los Angeles Fire Department crews positioned themselves along the runway. After circling the facility several times, the pilot brought the plane in for a smooth landing.
“It’s not uncommon for us to be called out for aircraft in distress,” said fire spokesman Brian Humphrey. “And in this case the pilot handled the situation with aplomb.”
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