Training Scenario
A flight instructor and a multi-engine student were conducting single-engine training maneuvers. At approximately 2,000 to 2,500 feet above ground level (agl), the instructor reduced power on the right engine to a zero-thrust setting. After maneuvering for 4-5 minutes, the instructor shut down the engine and feathered the propeller.
Failed Restart
Following about 5 minutes of single-engine operations, the student attempted to restart the right engine per the published procedure, including unfeathering the propeller, but was unsuccessful. The instructor then observed the aircraft had descended to 1,300-1,500 feet agl. The instructor had the student fly while he attempted to restart the windmilling engine.
Descent and Landing Decision
When the aircraft reached 500-700 feet agl, the flight instructor took over the controls and informed the student they would land in a field below. The instructor set up an approach, deployed the landing gear and 25 degrees of flaps.
Accident Sequence
While on short final to the field, the airplane struck the tops of bordering trees and then impacted the ground.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident inspection of both the left and right engines revealed no mechanical anomalies. Review of the flight instructor's logbook showed he had accumulated 4.8 hours of multi-engine airplane flight instruction experience. The flight school had established a minimum altitude of 3,000 feet agl for performing intentional single-engine shutdowns. According to the Piper PA-44 information manual, intentional one-engine operations should not be performed at an altitude of less than 4,000 feet above the ground.