Flight Crew Private; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 44; Flight Crew Total 795; Flight Crew Type 515
Distraction
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Diverted
Aircraft
I was flying a direct IFR route to ZZZ. ATC instructed to descend and maintain 4500 feet. When I adjusted the throttle; the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) decreased to 12 and I lost power to the aircraft. The engine was still running although at very low idle with no ability to move the throttle lever. I immediately informed ATC and diverted towards [the nearest] airport. I was still approximately 12 miles away and began the failed engine checklist with intentions of landing on a straight roadway. Upon pitching for best glide; I went through the failed engine checklist to notice the throttle was stuck. I manually forced the throttle forward and the plane immediately responded with full MAP. Seeing that the aircraft had restored full power; I then redirected back to my original destination without further incident. I landed safely and informed ATC of my arrival.
PA32 pilot reported experiencing a loss of engine power when the throttle was reduced for descent. The throttle appeared stuck but the reporter was able to force it and restore engine power.