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Dual-Student Freezes on Controls During Go-Around After Reported Engine Failure (N15541)

Daytona Beach, FL, US

On August 31, 1998, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N15541) operated by Wrightway Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Daytona Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The dual-student's attempt to perform a go-around after a reported loss of power in the left engine during landing flare and his failure to relinquish the controls to the instructor when control was lost during the go-around resulting in the aircraft rolling… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a dual training flight, the instructor reported a left engine failure on flare. The student initiated a go-around, but the aircraft rolled uncontrollably left. The student froze on controls, and despite feathering the left propeller, the instructor could not regain control before the aircraft struck the ground.

Accident Sequence

The accident occurred during a dual training flight. According to the instructor, the left engine quit as the dual-student flared for landing. In response, the dual student initiated a go-around. Subsequently, the aircraft rolled uncontrollably to the left.

Instructor's Actions

As the instructor attempted to regain control, the dual-student froze on the controls. The instructor then placed the left propeller in the feathered position. Despite this action, the instructor continued to struggle to gain control from the dual-student.

Impact and Post-Accident Examination

The aircraft struck the ground left wing first and spun around before coming to rest. After the accident, the left engine and propeller were placed on an engine test stand and operated to full power. The tests showed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that would cause loss of power.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1998 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Daytona Beach, FL?

During a dual training flight, the instructor reported a left engine failure on flare. The student initiated a go-around, but the aircraft rolled uncontrollably left. The student froze on controls, and despite feathering the left propeller, the instructor could not regain control before the aircraft struck the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1998 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N15541, operated by Wrightway Aviation, Inc., at Daytona Beach, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The dual-student's attempt to perform a go-around after a reported loss of power in the left engine during landing flare and his failure to relinquish the controls to the instructor when control was lost during the go-around resulting in the aircraft rolling uncontrollably to the left and colliding with the ground…

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10927. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.