Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172 near Norfolk, VA — 2015-01-06

Final reportERA15LA094
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Date
2015-01-06
Location
Norfolk, VA, USA
Airport
PVG
Aircraft
CESSNA 172
Registration
N2102P
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The engine’s failure to regain full power after a simulated engine failure for reasons that could not be determined during postaccident examinations and testing.

NTSB narrative

The designated pilot examiner (DPE) and student pilot were conducting a private pilot check ride. The DPE reported that, during climbout, he retarded the throttle to simulate an engine failure. The student attempted to recover the airplane by lowering its nose to maintain controlled flight. However, the airplane descended. The DPE terminated the simulated engine failure, took control of the airplane, and attempted to recover full engine power, but the engine remained at idle power, and the airplane descended into trees. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures, and the engine was test run with no anomalies noted. The reason for the engine's failure to regain full power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Student pilot failed to activate fuel boost pump during simulated engine failure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 7 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents7

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