N2346G

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-38-112S/N: 38-79A0502

Accident Details

Date
Friday, October 31, 2008
NTSB Number
WPR09CA030
Location
Friant, CA
Event ID
20081103X25921
Coordinates
37.000831, -119.618057
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The student pilot's failure to execute a go-around in timely manner, which resulted in a collision with terrain. Also causal was the instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight and delayed remedial actions.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N2346G
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
38-79A0502
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1979
Model / ICAO
PA-38-112PA38
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
GOLDEN EAGLE ENTERPRISES INC
Address
4885 E SHIELDS AVE STE 201
Status
Deregistered
City
FRESNO
State / Zip Code
CA 93726-6420
Country
United States

Analysis

In a written statement, the certified flight instructor (CFI) reported that the purpose of the flight was for the student pilot to practice simulated engine failures. The flight proceeded to mountainous area about 15 miles from the base airport. Three simulated engine failures were performed without mishap and the student setup for a fourth attempt. The airplane descended to about 100 feet above ground level (agl) and the student configured the airplane for a go-around by adding power and pitching the nose upward. Several seconds later the airplane collided with terrain.

In the section titled "RECOMMENDATION" in the NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, form 6120.1/2, the CFI stated that accident could have been prevented if the go-around was initiated at a higher altitude. The CFI further added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR09CA030