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Casualties unknown

Simulated Engine Failure Leads to Collision with Trees During Flight Review (N32729)

East Killingly, CT, US

On January 21, 2006, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N32729) was involved in an aviation accident near East Killingly, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's delayed decision to discontinue the simulated forced landing, which resulted in a collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a flight review, a flight instructor reduced engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. After the pilot selected a field and completed emergency procedures, the instructor returned power upon request. The aircraft struck trees and impacted the ground during climb.

Incident Overview

During a flight review, the flight instructor reduced engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. The pilot/owner subsequently selected a field to perform the simulated forced landing and completed the emergency checklist.

Sequence of Events

When the airplane was about 100 feet above the ground, the pilot asked the flight instructor if he could "have the power back." The flight instructor agreed, and the pilot increased engine power. During the subsequent climb, the airplane struck trees and then impacted the ground.

Post-Impact Findings

The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane and stated that the engine was operating normally.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jan 2006 Piper PA-28-140 accident near East Killingly, CT?

During a flight review, a flight instructor reduced engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. After the pilot selected a field and completed emergency procedures, the instructor returned power upon request. The aircraft struck trees and impacted the ground during climb.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jan 2006 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N32729, at East Killingly, CT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight instructor's delayed decision to discontinue the simulated forced landing, which resulted in a collision with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060223X00222. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.