Right main landing gear collapse during simulated engine out landing

Casualties unknown • Vero Beach, FL, US

A simulated engine failure during an instructional flight led to a landing gear collapse and runway excursion, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

What happened

During a local instructional flight, the crew attempted a simulated engine out landing. While on short final approach, the flight instructor observed an unsafe gear indication. In response, an attempt was made to abort the landing; however, the engine failed to develop sufficient takeoff power to execute the go-around.

As the aircraft landed, the right main landing gear collapsed. Following the collapse, the airplane slid down the runway and struck a runway marker light. The impact caused substantial damage to the right wing leading edge, the flap, and the aileron. There were no injuries reported in the incident.

The investigation

An FAA Inspector performed an on-scene examination of the aircraft's components. The inspection of the engine, landing gear, and the hydraulic system found no discrepancies.

Probable cause

The engine failed to produce enough power to complete a go-around after an unsafe gear indication occurred during a simulated engine failure approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-08-18 Piper PA-46-310P accident near Vero Beach, FL?

A simulated engine failure during an instructional flight led to a landing gear collapse and runway excursion, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-08-18 involved a Piper PA-46-310P, registration N4380S, at Vero Beach, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed to produce enough power to complete a go-around after an unsafe gear indication occurred during a simulated engine failure approach.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21652. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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