On February 23, 1998, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N54231) was involved in an aviation accident near Peoria, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: an improper preflight inspection of the airplane by the pilot and the inadvertant stall/mush which was encountered. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experiencing left engine overheating due to cowl plugs being left in shut down the engine and returned to the airport. During approach, landing gear extension issues led to a go-around attempt, but the airplane stalled and collided with a taxiway before sliding onto grass.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during a climb to cruise altitude, the left engine began overheating. The pilot determined that the cowl plugs had been left in the engine's cowl opening. He shut down the engine and returned to the airport. During the instrument approach, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear and flaps.
Go-Around and Collision
While on a 1-mile final approach, the tower advised the pilot to execute a go-around because the landing gear was not fully extended. The pilot stated that the airplane was past midfield before he applied power for the go-around. The airplane continued to descend and subsequently entered a stall/mush condition. The airplane collided with a taxiway and slid onto a grass area.
Post-Incident Inspection
On-scene investigation revealed no anomalies with the normal and emergency hydraulic systems. The CO2-operated emergency landing gear extension system was found to be capable of functioning but had not been used. The flaps were found in the full 'DOWN' position.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Feb 1998 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Peoria, IL?
A pilot experiencing left engine overheating due to cowl plugs being left in shut down the engine and returned to the airport. During approach, landing gear extension issues led to a go-around attempt, but the airplane stalled and collided with a taxiway before sliding onto grass.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Feb 1998 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N54231, at Peoria, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
an improper preflight inspection of the airplane by the pilot and the inadvertant stall/mush which was encountered. A factor associated with this accident was the pilot's decision to continue to use the emergency hydraulic hand pump rather than the CO2 bottle to extend the landing gear which resulted in the landing…
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