Casualties unknown

Loss of Engine Power During Multi-Engine Instruction Leads to Off-Runway Landing (N6962Y)

Perkasie, PA, US

On December 18, 1997, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N6962Y) operated by Robert H. Beckett was involved in an aviation accident near Perkasie, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in an off runway landing, after the left engine was reported to have lost power. 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 instructional flight, the left engine lost power after liftoff. The flight instructor took control, reduced power, and landed in rough terrain about 150 feet left of the runway.

Incident Overview

A multi-engine instructional flight experienced a loss of engine power shortly after liftoff. The flight instructor, who was providing instruction to the pilot owner, reported that the left engine failed just after takeoff while the landing gear remained extended.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane lifted off, the left engine lost power, causing the aircraft to veer to the left. The flight instructor immediately assumed control of the airplane, reduced engine power, and executed a landing in rough terrain approximately 150 feet to the left of the runway.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the incident, an examination of the airplane revealed that neither propeller had been feathered. Inspection of both engines showed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09377. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.