Single-engine go-around leads to street landing

Casualties unknown • Hawthorne, CA, US

During a simulated engine failure training flight, an aircraft failed to climb during a go-around and struck a sign and a truck while landing on a street.

What happened

During the initial climb-out from the airport, the flight instructor turned off the right engine fuel selector to simulate an engine failure. The student pilot performed the required engine-out emergency checklist, which involved feathering the right engine propeller. Following the checklist, the instructor directed the student to re-enter the right traffic pattern.

While on approach, the student pilot overshot the final approach course. At this time, the instructor observed that the left main landing gear down light was not illuminated. The instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted a single-engine go-around. However, the aircraft failed to climb. To avoid further complications, the instructor elected to land the plane on a street. During the landing sequence, the aircraft collided with a sign and a pickup truck before coming to a stop.

All occupants were not injured.

Probable cause

The inability of the aircraft to climb during a single-engine go-around following a simulated engine failure procedure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-08-13 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Hawthorne, CA?

During a simulated engine failure training flight, an aircraft failed to climb during a go-around and struck a sign and a truck while landing on a street.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-08-13 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N4553P, operated by Gdw Construction Company, at Hawthorne, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inability of the aircraft to climb during a single-engine go-around following a simulated engine failure procedure.

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