Single Engine Approach Accident Involving Student Pilot

Casualties unknown • Daytona Beach, FL, US

A student pilot experienced an unexpected descent rate during a single engine approach, leading to a wingtip strike on the runway.

What happened

During a practice single engine approach, a student pilot experienced a descent rate greater than anticipated, which caused the Cessna (type not specified in source) to touch down early. The flight instructor, positioned in the right seat, instructed the student to execute a go-around. During this maneuver, the student only advanced the throttle for the right engine.

The instructor reported that while the aircraft touched down during the landing flare, the student continued to flare, causing the airplane to become airborne again. Before control could be regained, the student's failure to advance the throttle for the left engine caused the left wingtip to strike the runway. The flight crew confirmed there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions involving the aircraft or its systems prior to the accident.

Findings

  • The student pilot advanced the throttle for the right engine only during the go-around attempt.
  • The descent rate during the single engine approach exceeded the pilot's expectations.

Probable cause

The student pilot failed to advance the throttle for the left engine during a go-around maneuver following an early touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-12-12 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Daytona Beach, FL?

A student pilot experienced an unexpected descent rate during a single engine approach, leading to a wingtip strike on the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-12-12 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N56825, operated by Phoenix East Aviation Inc, at Daytona Beach, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot failed to advance the throttle for the left engine during a go-around maneuver following an early touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060105X00007. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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