Introduction
A Piper PA-44-180 aircraft, operated during a training flight, experienced a right engine power loss while maneuvering southeast of Lake Ashby. The engine runup prior to takeoff was reported as normal by the pilot in command, a flight instructor. The dual student performed a normal takeoff.
Sequence of Events
While maneuvering approximately 5 miles southeast of Lake Ashby, the dual student applied climb engine power and initiated a climb. At about 2,000 feet, the student reported a loss of power from the right engine. The flight instructor assumed control and turned the aircraft back toward the airport. The right engine briefly regained power but then failed completely.
The aircraft was flown at the single-engine best rate of climb speed (VySE) of 88 knots, with a descent rate of about 200 feet per minute. It became evident that the aircraft could not reach the airport, and the decision was made to land in a field. The crew completed the "Landing with an inoperative engine" checklist and feathered the right propeller.
The selected field appeared flat and covered with grass. After touchdown, braking was ineffective due to very wet grass. At the end of the field, a 12-foot-wide, 4-foot-deep canal with a sloping embankment was present. The aircraft slid off the embankment and landed hard on the adjacent field, sustaining landing gear damage.
Examination Findings
A postcrash examination by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector found the right engine magneto to be inoperative, with neither set of breaker points opening. Further examination of the magneto by Teledyne Continental Motors personnel, under FAA supervision, revealed signatures of excessive temperature indicating overheating of the rear bearing as the origin of the magneto malfunction.
Relevant Procedures
The Piper PA-44-180 Pilot Operating Handbook, Section 3 (Emergency Procedures), states that if altitude permits, an engine restart may be attempted. If restart fails or altitude is insufficient, the engine securing procedure, which includes feathering the propeller of the inoperative engine, should be followed.