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Engine Fails to Respond During Simulated Forced Landing in Training Flight (N7744C)

Alexandria, LA, US

On August 17, 1982, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N7744C) operated by Baker Manufacturing Company, I was involved in an aviation accident near Alexandria, LA. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a commercial flight rating training flight, a simulated forced landing was conducted. The engine failed to respond when throttle was advanced at low altitude. The instructor skidded the aircraft into a field, collapsing the gear. No preimpact failure was found.

Flight Purpose and Maneuver

The purpose of the flight was to prepare the pilot in the left seat for a commercial flight rating. After completing a power-off descent from 4000 ft to 2000 ft, the instructor gave the student a simulated forced landing. The throttle was opened briefly at 1000 ft and again at about 500 ft to clear the engine. The simulated forced landing was continued until about 100 ft above ground level (AGL).

Engine Response Issue

At approximately 100 ft AGL, the throttle was advanced, but there was no response from the engine. The instructor pilot (IP) took control at about 50 ft AGL and was unable to get the engine to respond. The IP stated that the gear was down.

Instructor Actions and Landing

The IP decided to skid the aircraft sideways into the plowed field to collapse the gear. Both pilots stated that the engine began to regain power during touchdown, but stopped immediately when the propeller contacted the ground.

Post-Accident Findings

No preimpact failure was found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Aug 1982 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Alexandria, LA?

During a commercial flight rating training flight, a simulated forced landing was conducted. The engine failed to respond when throttle was advanced at low altitude. The instructor skidded the aircraft into a field, collapsing the gear. No preimpact failure was found.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Aug 1982 Piper PA-32R-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Aug 1982 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N7744C, operated by Baker Manufacturing Company, I, at Alexandria, LA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03408. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.