On June 9, 1987, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration N3965M) operated by Beaver Aviation Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Unity, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a training flight, a CFI reduced power for a simulated forced landing; when adding power for a go-around, the engine lost power completely at 400-500 ft AGL, leading to a forced landing in a field. Post-accident examination found no pre-existing malfunction.
Incident Summary
During a training flight, a certified flight instructor (CFI) reduced the engine power to near idle to allow a student to practice a simulated forced landing. As the aircraft descended, the CFI attempted to increase power to initiate a go-around, at which point the engine lost power completely at an altitude of approximately 400 to 500 feet above ground level. Subsequent efforts to restore engine power were unsuccessful, and the flight conducted a forced landing in a field.
Pilot Report
The CFI reported that he had momentarily increased the power several times during the descent to "clear" the engine. He stated that he was slowly opening the throttle when the engine lost power.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane and engine by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) found no evidence of any pre-existing malfunction or failure.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Jun 1987 Piper PA-28R-201 accident near Unity, OH?
During a training flight, a CFI reduced power for a simulated forced landing; when adding power for a go-around, the engine lost power completely at 400-500 ft AGL, leading to a forced landing in a field. Post-accident examination found no pre-existing malfunction.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Jun 1987 involved a Piper PA-28R-201, registration N3965M, operated by Beaver Aviation Service, Inc., at Unity, OH.
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