Casualties unknown

Simulated Engine Failure Exercise Ends in Crash During Forced Landing Attempt (N8297Y)

Pine Bush, NY, US

On November 30, 1986, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8297Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Pine Bush, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inability to regain engine power during a simulated emergency descent, which resulted in a forced landing collision with trees and farm equipment; the cause of the power loss was undetermined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A flight instructor and student crashed while practicing a simulated engine failure. The instructor attempted to terminate the exercise, but power could not be restored, leading to impact with trees and farm equipment.

What happened

The accident occurred during a training flight involving a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot. The crew was conducting a simulated engine failure exercise to practice emergency procedures. At an altitude of 1700 feet above mean sea level, the CFI initiated a simulated emergency descent.

To terminate the simulation, the CFI applied full throttle. However, engine power could not be regained. Consequently, the aircraft proceeded into a forced landing approach. During this approach, the aircraft collided with trees and a piece of farm equipment.

The investigation

Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of power during the training exercise. Despite the examination, the specific cause of the power loss was not determined.

Probable cause

The inability to regain engine power during a simulated emergency descent, which resulted in a forced landing collision with trees and farm equipment; the cause of the power loss was undetermined.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Nov 1986 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Pine Bush, NY?

A flight instructor and student crashed while practicing a simulated engine failure. The instructor attempted to terminate the exercise, but power could not be restored, leading to impact with trees and farm equipment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Nov 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8297Y, at Pine Bush, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inability to regain engine power during a simulated emergency descent, which resulted in a forced landing collision with trees and farm equipment; the cause of the power loss was undetermined.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35269. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.