Casualties unknown

Simulated Engine Failure Training Leads to Stall and Ground Impact (N23916)

Hollister, CA, US

On July 9, 1989, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N23916) operated by Dunlap, Michael J was involved in an aviation accident near Hollister, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTION IN SUFFICIENT TIME TO PREVENT THE AIRPLANE FROM STRIKING THE GROUND. 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 simulated engine failure exercise at 3,500 feet, a student pilot overshot final approach. The instructor took control and initiated a 360-degree turn, during which the airplane stalled and struck the ground despite applying full power.

Event Summary

A training flight involving a simulated engine failure resulted in a loss of control and ground impact. The exercise was conducted by a flight instructor and a student pilot.

Initial Conditions

The flight instructor initiated a simulated engine failure while the airplane was at 3,500 feet above mean sea level.

Sequence of Events

The student pilot carried out the standard emergency procedures for the simulated failure. Upon reaching the final approach leg of the landing pattern, the airplane was at an altitude too high to complete a normal landing on the runway. At this point, the flight instructor took control of the airplane. The instructor planned to execute an additional 360-degree turn to lose altitude before landing.

As the airplane entered the bank for the turn, it entered an aerodynamic stall. The flight instructor responded by applying full engine power in an attempt to recover from the stall. However, the airplane was unable to return to level flight prior to impacting the ground.

Outcome

The accident sequence concluded with the airplane striking the ground. The source does not specify injuries, damage, or other outcomes.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1989 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Hollister, CA?

During a simulated engine failure exercise at 3,500 feet, a student pilot overshot final approach. The instructor took control and initiated a 360-degree turn, during which the airplane stalled and struck the ground despite applying full power.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1989 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N23916, operated by Dunlap, Michael J, at Hollister, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTION IN SUFFICIENT TIME TO PREVENT THE AIRPLANE FROM STRIKING THE GROUND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28865. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.