From what I remember reading about that accident, the pilot had pulled power as per normal ops because he felt the very sharp deceleration prior to the break.
Note: Again, from being told/reading, depending on the landing weight, an F/A-18 might not need 'burner, simply full mil power for a 'routine' bolter.
What's truly astounding to me is the deck sailor's presence of mind/reaction time to jump the snapped cable as it whipped back.
Well done!
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Had a cable break myself in the 60's in the RN. The deck was fairly empty, slammed the anchors on and swerved to the right and stopped before running off the end.
Sea Hawk pilot friend told me of a similar event, but upon taking 'the right turn' found himself approaching a gaggle of parked jets. He said he aimed for his sister squadron's pile and could see his counterpart's commander on the vulture's row' giving him the "up yours" sign as he plowed in.
Good story if nothing else!