Casualties unknown

2000-03-31: Champion 7GCAA (N8371V) — Arlington, SD

Arlington, SD, US

On March 31, 2000, a Champion 7GCAA (registration N8371V) was involved in an aviation accident near Arlington, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the CFI's improper use of the throttle control during a simulated loss of engine power emergency. A factor associated with the accident was the rough terrain on which the forced landing was conducted. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, a CFI simulated an engine failure by retarding the throttle. Power was not restored upon advancing the throttle, leading to a forced landing. The left main landing gear collapsed and the left wing contacted the ground.

Accident Summary

A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were conducting touch-and-go landing practice. After climbing to 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL), the CFI pulled the throttle back to simulate a loss of engine power.

Simulated Emergency

During the simulated emergency, the student pilot applied carburetor heat, verified the mixture setting, and checked the fuel selector position. According to the CFI, the student then advanced the throttle. The student reported that the CFI 'rapidly' advanced the throttle upon completion of the simulated emergency. However, engine power was not regained when the throttle was advanced.

Forced Landing and Damage

A forced landing was executed against the plowed rows in an open field. During the landing, the left main landing gear collapsed and the left wing contacted the terrain. The CFI noted that 'clearing the engine if loaded with fuel' may have prevented the accident. Both the CFI and the student pilot reported that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20604. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.