Casualties unknown

Multi-Engine Rating Flight Ends in Forced Landing After Simulated Engine Failure (N915PM)

Boscobel, WI, US

On September 20, 1991, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N915PM) operated by Thomas G. Pelz was involved in an aviation accident near Boscobel, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER REMEDIAL ACTION BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND (PIC), AND INADEQUATE MONITORING BY THE DESIGNATED PILOT EXAMINER (DPE) DURING A SIMULATED EMERGENCY PROCEDURE. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a multi-engine rating checkride, the DPE simulated an engine failure. The left engine lost power, leading to a forced landing short of the runway with nose gear collapse. No cause for the power loss was found.

Incident Details

The purpose of the flight was for the pilot-in-command (PIC) to obtain a multi-engine add-on rating. During a two-engine go-around, the designated pilot examiner (DPE) simulated an engine failure by retarding the left throttle. Shortly thereafter, the airspeed decreased, and the PIC advised the DPE that he was unable to maintain altitude or attitude. The left throttle was readvanced with no apparent effect. The PIC was unable to restore power in the left engine and relinquished flight controls to the DPE.

Approach and Landing

The aircraft was prepared for an approach to the airport. With the left engine and hydraulic system inoperative, the PIC used the manual hand pump to operate the landing gear and flaps, after ensuring the aircraft would clear obstacles. He continued pumping, but the aircraft was forced to land short of the runway. During touchdown, the nose gear collapsed before it was fully extended. The wing flaps were found extended.

Hydraulic System Operation

The landing gear and wing flaps operated from the same hydraulic system; either could have been actuated independently of the other. The hydraulic system was built so that when the gear and flaps were engaged at the same time, the gear would complete its operation before the flaps operated.

Investigation Findings

No reason was found for the loss of power in the left engine.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18072. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.