What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jun 2006 involved a Taylorcraft BC12-D, registration N96486, at Mayville, NY.

Simulated Engine Failure Results in Collision with Power Lines and Terrain (N96486)

On June 13, 2006, a Taylorcraft BC12-D (registration N96486) was involved in an aviation accident near Mayville, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's improper decision to attempt a simulated engine failure at a low altitude and her failure to maintain clearance from trees and wires, while maneuvering. Also causal was the flight instructor's impairment from prescription medication. 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 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

During a takeoff training flight, a flight instructor simulated an engine failure. The student pilot turned, then the instructor took control and the airplane struck power lines and trees before impacting the ground. Toxicology revealed impairing medications.

Accident Sequence

During a takeoff training flight, the student pilot initiated the takeoff. As the airplane reached an altitude between 200 and 600 feet, the certified flight instructor (CFI) reduced the throttle to simulate an engine failure. In response, the student pilot lowered the airplane's nose, confirmed an airspeed of 60 mph, and began a gentle left turn. While turning, the student pilot observed that the CFI appeared preoccupied with the instrument panel. Shortly thereafter, the CFI assumed control of the airplane, stating, "I'll fly now." The airplane subsequently struck power lines and trees before impacting the ground.

Medical History and Medication Use

The pilot had received treatment for chronic back pain for approximately 10 years and had developed an addiction to pain medication. She also suffered from severe abdominal symptoms, likely resulting from dependence on narcotics. Over the four years preceding the accident, the pilot was prescribed multiple narcotics for pain management. At the time of the accident, she was regularly filling prescriptions for fentanyl patches (an impairing narcotic) and carisoprodol (a sedative muscle relaxant) at least every four weeks. She was also taking gabapentin (an anti-seizure medication also used for chronic pain) and fluconazole (a prescription antifungal medication prescribed eight days before the accident, which could interfere with fentanyl metabolism). The pilot was found wearing fentanyl patches in excess of the prescribed amount.

Toxicological Findings

Postaccident toxicology testing detected fentanyl, carisoprodol, fluconazole, and gabapentin in the pilot's blood and urine. The level of fentanyl in the blood was several times higher than the maximum expected from typical use of the prescribed doses.

Medical Certification

On her applications for airman medical certification, the pilot had not disclosed her narcotic dependence or use of any medications other than ibuprofen. According to the source, had these been reported, the medical certificate would have been denied.

Aircraft and Engine Examination

Examination of the airplane and engine revealed no preimpact mechanical anomalies.

Engine failure