Aircraft Overruns Runway During Multi-Engine Training

Casualties unknown • Easton, PA, US

A single-engine flight instructor undergoing multi-engine upgrade training overran a runway and entered a plowed field during a landing in crosswind conditions.

What happened

During a flight intended for dual instruction, a single-engine flight instructor was undergoing training to be upgraded to a multi-engine flight instructor. While performing the approach, the student pilot experienced difficulty with runway alignment and managing the effects of a crosswind. Due to these difficulties, control of the aircraft was transferred to the pilot in command (PIC).

The PIC continued the approach and landing on a runway surface that was wet from rain. Following touchdown, the aircraft overran the 1,953-foot runway and entered an adjacent plowed field. The occupants were not injured.

There were conflicting accounts regarding the touchdown point: the PIC stated the aircraft landed in the first third of the runway, while a witness reported the landing occurred between two-thirds and three-quarters down the runway length.

Findings

The investigation noted that the aircraft was not equipped with brake pedals on the right side. The pilot in command reported using the parking brake lever, located on the lower instrument panel between the two seats, to attempt to slow the aircraft. Additionally, FAA investigators did not observe any skid marks in the grass area following the overrun.

Probable cause

The aircraft overran the runway due to a wet runway surface and the pilot's use of the parking brake rather than effective braking during the landing roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-09-10 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Easton, PA?

A single-engine flight instructor undergoing multi-engine upgrade training overran a runway and entered a plowed field during a landing in crosswind conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-09-10 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N55145, operated by Jeff Van Arsdale, at Easton, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft overran the runway due to a wet runway surface and the pilot's use of the parking brake rather than effective braking during the landing roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18167. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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