Casualties unknown

Instructor and Trainee Involved in Multi-Engine Training Accident (N717PE)

Deland, FL, US

On July 19, 2006, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N717PE) operated by Phoenix East Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Deland, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's inadequate supervision of the dual student during final approach to land, and his delayed remedial action following a partial loss of engine power on one of the two engines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a multi-engine training flight, a simulated engine failure led to an unstable approach and a go-around attempt. The right engine failed to produce full power, causing the aircraft to veer and collide with terrain.

Incident Overview

A certified flight instructor was providing multi-engine flight instruction to a private pilot seeking a multi-engine rating. After completing a series of maneuvers, the instructor simulated a right engine failure by reducing power on that engine. The instructor directed the second pilot to perform a simulated single-engine emergency landing at the nearest airport.

Approach and Go-Around

During the approach, as the airplane descended through about 100 feet above ground level, the single-engine approach became unstable. The instructor instructed the second pilot to abort the landing and execute a go-around. The second pilot applied full power to both engines. However, according to both pilots, the right engine did not produce full power, causing the airplane to veer sharply to the right.

Loss of Control

The instructor took control of the airplane and reduced power on the left engine in an attempt to correct the veer. As the airplane neared the departure end of the runway, it descended and collided with grass-covered terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings, fuselage, and empennage.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident inspection revealed no evidence of any preexisting mechanical anomalies. The right engine was removed, inspected, and placed on an engine test stand. It was operated at various power settings for an extended period and operated without incident, producing its maximum rated rpm.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060809X01133. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.