On February 27, 2001, a Piper PA-30 (registration N8196Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Appleton, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The misjudged glidepath and the intentional engine shutdown by the pilot. Factors were the false indication of the landing gear down light and the approach light. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft undershot the runway during a precautionary landing, struck a runway approach light, and came to rest about 10 feet from the runway end. The flight was practicing instrument approaches when a landing gear indicator issue arose.
Approach and Landing
During a flight conducted to practice instrument approaches, the pilot extended the landing gear on an approach. The landing gear down indicator light did not illuminate. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the problem and subsequently decided to proceed with landing.
Precautionary Landing
On final approach, the pilot elected to shut down the engines in an attempt to minimize potential engine and propeller damage in the event of a landing gear collapse. The pilot later stated, "I cut the power too soon."
Outcome
The aircraft undershot the runway during the precautionary landing, struck a runway approach light, and came to rest approximately 10 feet from the end of the runway.