On July 3, 1992, a Piper PA-44-180 (registration N46RJ) operated by Southwind Flt Trng System Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Port Isabel, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF POWER TO THE RIGHT ENGINE DUE TO A FRACTURED CRANKSHAFT WHILE THE LEFT ENGINE WAS SECURED. FACTORS WERE THE DUAL STUDENTS FAILURE TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT WHILE PERFORMING MANEUVERS AND THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a training flight, a dual student's improper carburetor heat use led to left engine power loss. Later, the right engine's crankshaft fractured, forcing an off-airport landing near the runway.
Incident Overview
A dual student was conducting several maneuvers with the left engine windmilling. Carburetor heat was not used despite prevailing carburetor icing conditions. After completing a maneuver and returning to cruise flight, the left engine experienced a power loss.
Instructor Intervention
The instructor assumed control of the aircraft and initiated a normal descent toward a nearby airport. During the descent, the left engine was secured. As the aircraft turned from base leg to final approach, the right engine's crankshaft fractured.
Forced Landing
A forced landing was executed to unsuitable terrain approximately one-quarter mile from the runway.
Post-Accident Findings
Following the accident, the left engine was successfully test run. A teardown inspection of the right engine revealed the fractured crankshaft.