Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Simulated Forced Landing Leads to Off-Airport Landing and Gear Damage (N975MA)

Chandler, AZ, US

On February 26, 1993, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N975MA) operated by Chandler Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNDETERMINED REASON. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 15 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a simulated power-off forced landing exercise, the engine quit after carburetor heat was turned off. Restart attempts failed, leading to an emergency landing on soft terrain, resulting in landing gear separation and collapse.

Accident Overview

A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were practicing a simulated power-off forced landing maneuver. The CFI reported that at about 300 feet above ground level (AGL), when the exercise was terminated and the student applied power to go around, the engine ceased operating after the carburetor heat control was moved to the off position.

Post-Event Actions

Both pilots attempted to restart the engine, including turning the carburetor heat control back to the on position and moving the fuel selector to another tank. These efforts were unsuccessful.

Emergency Landing

During the subsequent emergency landing in a field, the aircraft encountered soft and uneven terrain. The left main landing gear separated from the aircraft, and the nose gear collapsed.

Post-Accident Inspection

Some time after the accident, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspectors examined the aircraft. One inspector examined the wreckage after it was removed from the accident site. The inspection revealed continuity of the fuel system to the fuel strainer; however, the fuel strainer was loose and did not contain a safety wire. Fuel was present in the carburetor. The fuel selector was positioned to the left fuel tank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11859. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.