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Hard Landing During Simulated Engine Failure Demonstration Damages Wings

Lafayette, IN, United States

On June 7, 2019, an Ercoupe 415 C operated by Able Flight Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Lafayette, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's failure to maintain pitch control and his improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During a simulated engine failure demonstration, a flight instructor reduced power to idle, resulting in a hard landing that substantially damaged both wings. No mechanical issues were reported.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor conducting a training flight for a student pilot performed a simulated engine failure on takeoff. After climbing several hundred feet, the instructor reduced engine power to idle and adjusted the airplane's pitch to maintain best glide speed. During the landing flare, the instructor applied back pressure to the yoke but realized the touchdown would be harder than intended. The airplane subsequently landed hard on the runway.

Damage

The hard landing caused substantial damage to both wings of the airplane.

Instructor Report

The flight instructor stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Pitch control — Not attained/maintainedLanding flare — Not attained/maintainedInstructor/check pilot

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jun 2019 Ercoupe 415 C accident near Lafayette, IN?

During a simulated engine failure demonstration, a flight instructor reduced power to idle, resulting in a hard landing that substantially damaged both wings. No mechanical issues were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jun 2019 Ercoupe 415 C accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jun 2019 involved an Ercoupe 415 C, operated by Able Flight Inc, at Lafayette, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight instructor's failure to maintain pitch control and his improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.

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