Casualties unknown

Instructional Flight Ends in Runway Undershoot After Right Engine Power Loss (N3154P)

Bridgeport, TX, US

On July 21, 1998, a Piper PA-23 (registration N3154P) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's delay in recognizing and responding to the loss of right engine power which resulted in the airplane landing short of the runway. A factor was the loss of right engine power for undetermined reasons. 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 an instructional flight, a twin-engine airplane lost right engine power and undershot the runway after the instructor took control, feathered the engine, and retracted flaps. The cause of the power loss remains undetermined.

Accident Overview

An instructional flight in a twin-engine airplane ended with the aircraft impacting trees short of the runway after the right engine lost power. The accident occurred while the airplane was in the traffic pattern following an initial takeoff.

Sequence of Events

The flight began with a private pilot receiving instruction at the controls. After takeoff, the airplane remained in the traffic pattern. During the turn to the base leg, the airplane suddenly began losing altitude. The flight instructor then assumed control of the aircraft. The instructor added full power, feathered the right engine, and retracted the flaps in response to the situation. Despite these actions, the airplane was unable to reach the runway and struck trees short of the landing area.

Comments from Operator

According to the operator, monitoring of the engine gauges might have prevented the accident by alerting the pilots to the loss of engine power at an earlier stage. The operator did not provide further details on the specific gauge readings or pilot actions.

Investigation

The reason for the loss of right engine power has not been determined. The investigation is ongoing, with no definitive findings regarding the mechanical or operational cause of the power loss.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10586. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.