Casualties unknown

Engine Shutdown During Demonstration Leads to Off-Airport Landing (N2297P)

Duncan, OK, US

On March 13, 1994, a Piper PA-23 (registration N2297P) operated by Brewer, Jim L. was involved in an aviation accident near Duncan, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF THE WRONG ENGINE FOR SHUT DOWN. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. 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 demonstration approach, a pilot shut down the left engine to simulate a single-engine landing. After landing gear failed to extend due to the hydraulic pump being engine-driven, the pilot attempted a restart, but control was temporarily passed to an inexperienced passenger. The aircraft overshot the airport and landed in a wheatfield, striking a fence.

Incident Overview

During an approach to an airport, the pilot shut down the left engine to demonstrate a single-engine landing to a prospective new owner. After entering the base leg-to-final turn, the pilot-in-command (PIC) attempted to lower the landing gear, but it did not respond. He then realized that the hydraulic pump was driven by the left engine.

Restart Attempt

The pilot attempted to restart the left engine. Prior to doing so, he passed control of the aircraft to a commercially rated passenger who had no experience in that make and model. The passenger's attempt to restart the left engine was unsuccessful.

Pilot Takes Control

After taking control of the aircraft from the passenger, the pilot recognized that he had overshot the airport. He elected to land in a wheatfield. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a fence.

Investigation

The investigation into the incident is ongoing. No further details have been released regarding the aircraft type, registration, or injuries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00899. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.