Casualties unknown

1991-05-17: Beech 55 (N42WE) — Potter, Douglas A. — Perry, GA

Perry, GA, US

On May 17, 1991, a Beech 55 (registration N42WE) operated by Potter, Douglas A. was involved in an aviation accident near Perry, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND (CFI). THE IMPROPER PROCEDURE OF TURNING THE FUEL SELECTOR VALVE TO 'OFF' AT ALTITUDE TO SIMULATE A FAILED ENGINE, THEN DELAYING RESTARTING OF THE ENGINE UNTIL THE AIRCRAFT WAS ON FINAL APPROACH WAS… 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, an instructor simulated an engine failure by turning off the fuel selector. After a go-around, the engine failed, leading to a forced landing and crash.

Incident Description

During a training flight, the aircraft executed a go-around at approximately 30 feet above the ground. Both engines initially responded for about 30 seconds, after which the right engine failed. The aircraft was unable to climb on one engine. To avoid power lines, the pilot elected to attempt a forced landing in a field. During the landing, the right wing contacted the terrain, resulting in a crash.

Pilot Statement

The instructor pilot stated that, to simulate an engine failure, he turned the right engine fuel selector to the 'OFF' position. At some point during the approach to the airfield, he returned the fuel selector to 'ON' and restarted the right engine. He then left the power on the right engine at a low setting to continue simulating a failed engine.

Manual Procedures

According to the aircraft pilot's manual, single engine demonstrations should be accomplished using the power and propeller levers and should be conducted at an altitude of 5000 feet above ground level.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16915. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.