Aircraft contacts runway during simulated single-engine go-around

Casualties unknown • Billings, MT, US

An aircraft experienced a continued descent and contacted the runway during a simulated engine failure procedure despite the application of full power to both engines.

What happened

During a flight maneuver involving a simulated single-engine out go-around, the pilot applied full power to the left engine while the right engine was set at zero thrust. The pilot maintained the "blue line" airspeed of 118 MPH IAS, which arrested the aircraft's descent rate. Following this, the flaps and landing gear were retracted.

While flying by visual cues, the pilot noted that the aircraft felt "mushy" and the altitude was descending below the minimum descent altitude. Upon cross-checking flight instruments, the pilot observed that the aircraft was not climbing but continuing to descend. In an attempt to regain airspeed, the pilot lowered the nose, but realized the airspeed had reached or slightly exceeded the minimum controllable airspeed.

The pilot immediately applied full power to the right engine, but the aircraft continued to settle. The aircraft eventually contacted the runway in a wings-level and slightly nose-high attitude. An onboard check pilot reported that at the time of impact, the left engine was at full power and the right engine was at nearly or full power. Both pilots believed the main landing gear had been retracted, though the nose gear may not have been fully retracted.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-02-20 Cessna 402B accident near Billings, MT?

An aircraft experienced a continued descent and contacted the runway during a simulated engine failure procedure despite the application of full power to both engines.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-02-20 involved a Cessna 402B, registration N69316, at Billings, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Best rate-of-climb single-engine speed was not maintained. Delayed remedial action was a factor.

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.

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