Hard landing during simulated emergency descent training

Casualties unknown • EL Reno, OK, US

A private pilot experienced a hard landing while practicing power-off emergency procedures during an instructional flight.

What happened

During an instructional training flight, a pilot with 1,576 hours of experience was practicing emergency procedures with a flight instructor. The session involved a simulated power-off emergency descent initiated by the instructor at 5,000 feet MSL over the airport.

As the aircraft descended and aligned for the final approach to Runway 17, an excessive sink rate developed on short final. In response, the flight instructor directed the pilot to perform a go-around. The pilot attempted to initiate the go-around by adding power; however, the long engine spool-up time resulted in a hard landing during a touch-and-go maneuver.

Weather conditions at the time of the event included winds from 210 degrees at 9 knots, visibility of 10 statute miles, a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and an altimeter setting of 29.93 inches of Mercury.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to execute a go-around was hindered by the delayed engine power response during the descent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-09-22 Piper PA-46T accident near EL Reno, OK?

A private pilot experienced a hard landing while practicing power-off emergency procedures during an instructional flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-09-22 involved a Piper PA-46T, registration N7WS, operated by Robert N. Barnes, at EL Reno, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to execute a go-around was hindered by the delayed engine power response during the descent.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051130X01912. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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