Casualties unknown

Simulated Single-Engine Go-Around Ends with Runway Contact (N69316)

Billings, MT, US

On February 20, 2001, a Cessna 402B (registration N69316) was involved in an aviation accident near Billings, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Best rate-of-climb single-engine speed was not maintained. Delayed remedial action was a factor. 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 a simulated single-engine go-around, the pilot applied full power to the left engine, retracted flaps and landing gear, but the aircraft continued descending and contacted the runway in a wings-level, slightly nose-high attitude.

Incident Overview

During a training flight, a simulated single-engine-out go-around was initiated. The pilot reported applying full power to the left engine while the right engine was set to zero thrust. The aircraft was maintained at "blue line" speed (118 MPH indicated airspeed). The descent rate was arrested, following which the flaps and then the landing gear were retracted.

Pilot Actions and Observations

The pilot stated that after retraction, he was relying on visual cues and noticed that the aircraft altitude was descending below the minimum descent altitude. The aircraft felt "mushy." Upon cross-checking the flight instruments, the pilot observed that the aircraft was not climbing and continued to descend. He then lowered the nose to trade altitude for airspeed, but realized that the airspeed was at or slightly above the minimum controllable airspeed. The pilot immediately applied full power to the right engine, but the aircraft continued to settle and subsequently contacted the runway in a wings-level, slightly nose-high attitude.

Check Pilot Account

The check pilot onboard reported that full power was on the left engine and nearly or full power was on the right engine at the time of impact. Both pilots believed that the main landing gear had been retracted, but the nose gear might not have been fully retracted.

Conclusion

The source does not provide a probable cause for the occurrence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010222X00501. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.