NTSB Reports: October 2016

The flight instructor set the airplane up for simulated engine failure by pulling out the carburetor heat control and reducing throttle to 1200 rpm. The student pilot followed emergency procedures, used the checklist and prepared to land. After the carburetor heat control was pushed back in and the throttle advanced, there was a sudden loss of power; efforts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The airplane collided with the fence during the landing.

Editorial Staff

Thursday, September 15, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Numerous accidents involved engine failures or significant power loss, often leading to forced landings in various terrains including roads, fields, and water.
Pilot judgment and decision-making, such as misjudging approach and takeoff parameters, low fuel situations, or navigating challenging terrain, were contributing factors in many incidents.
Adverse environmental conditions like downdrafts, high density altitude, and strong winds played a role in several accidents by affecting aircraft performance and control.
Several incidents highlight mechanical issues or improper configuration, such as retracted landing gear or an open baggage compartment, contributing to loss of control or substantial damage.

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Czech Aircraft Works SportCruiser
July 1, 2016, Wyoming, Minnesota

At about 2206 Central time, the airplane sustained substantial damage during an off-airport landing on Interstate Highway 35 (I-35). The solo sport pilot received minor injuries. Night visual conditions prevailed for the local flight.

The pilot later stated he could not find his departure point because it was dark. The airplane was low on fuel and he could not see an airport beacon, so he landed the airplane on a road, I-35. During the landing roll, the airplane’s right wing hit a road divider, causing substantial damage.