What happened
On February 9, 2025, at approximately 11:15 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA-2ability-235 bearing registration N8535N was conducting a Part 91 instructional flight near Shafter, California. While on final approach to runway 30 at Shafter-Airport-Minter Field (MIT), the engine lost power at an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level.
The flight instructor assumed control of the aircraft and executed the power loss in flight checklist. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the instructor was unable to restore power and initiated a forced landing into an open field located roughly one mile south of runway 30. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over, causing substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and the left wing. The student pilot and flight instructor were not injured.
The investigation
The aircraft was recovered to a secure location for further examination.