Accident Details
On September 3, 2025, at approximately 1135 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-44-180, registration N477BG, was substantially damaged during an accident near Bowling Green, Ohio. The private pilot and the designated pilot examiner (DPE) sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight.
According to the private pilot, who was undergoing a checkride for a private pilot airplane multi-engine land rating, the flight departed from Wood County Airport (1G0) in Bowling Green, Ohio, without any anomalies. During the checkride, the pilot reported that while at altitude, the right engine was manually shut down to perform single-engine operations. After completing the single-engine maneuvers, the private pilot reported that the DPE initiated the procedure to restart the engine. The DPE then stated that he believed the engine had restarted because of an increase in manifold pressure indicated on the engine instrument gauges. Both pilots reported that the right engine was not brought back up to full power to confirm normal operation after the in-flight shutdown.
The private pilot reported that they continued the checkride and began an approach back to 1G0 while the DPE controlled the right engine to simulate single-engine operations. The private pilot asked the DPE if, in the event of a go-around, both engines could be used, and the DPE confirmed that they could. While on final approach to land at 1G0, the private pilot reported that the approach was unstable and that he decided to execute a go-around. The private pilot advanced both throttles to full power; however, only the left engine responded, causing the airplane to yaw to the right. The DPE then took control of the airplane, retracted the landing gear and flaps, and feathered the right propeller. The DPE stated that the airplane was unable to climb and continued to descend. He turned the airplane to the right toward a field, and during the turn, the airplane impacted the field.
A postaccident examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The wreckage was retained for further examination.