Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-23 near Rochester, MN — 2010-06-17

Final reportCEN10FA322
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Date
2010-06-17
Location
Rochester, MN, USA
Airport
RST
Aircraft
PIPER PA-23
Registration
N7SE
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
3
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

The loss of engine power and the pilot's subsequent loss of control for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

During the night flight, the pilot reported a loss of engine power to air traffic controllers and requested assistance locating the nearest airport. About 18 nautical miles from the airport, the pilot stated to the controllers that the twin engine airplane's left engine had lost power and that he was attempting to maintain altitude. Later, the pilot stated that he was unsure if he would be able to make the airport. The airplane impacted trees and terrain about a mile from the runway. A postaccident examination of the airplane disclosed no anomalies that would explain the loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have diverted to Dodge Center Airport instead of continuing to RST.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • ATC audio
  • ADS-B / radar
  • Photos
  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

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