Aircraft excursion and hangar collision following simulated engine failure

Casualties unknown • Van Nuys, CA, US

A flight training accident occurred after touchdown when an aircraft veered off the runway, striking a taxiway sign and a hangar.

What happened

During a simulated right engine out approach and landing, a Cessna (type not specified in source) experienced a loss of directional control immediately after touchdown. The instructor and the pilot reported that both throttles had been reduced to idle for the landing. The pilot noted a left crosswind condition during the arrival.

Following touchdown, the crew reported that the left wing rose, which caused the right wing to strike the runway surface. This impact caused the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway and become airborne in a nose-high, steep right bank configuration. The instructor attempted to lower the nose and verified that the throttles remained at idle, but the pilot was unable to regain control of the aircraft.

The aircraft subsequently contacted a taxiway, striking a taxiway sign and entering a sideways slide. During this excursion, the landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft finally came to a rest after colliding with a hangar. There were no injuries reported for the instructor or the pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-01-09 Piper SENECA accident near Van Nuys, CA?

A flight training accident occurred after touchdown when an aircraft veered off the runway, striking a taxiway sign and a hangar.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-01-09 involved a Piper SENECA, registration N4495T, operated by Hollywood Aviators Inc, at Van Nuys, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. Also causal was the flight instructor's delayed remedial action and inadequate supervision of the flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060202X00152. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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