PA-23 Apache/Geronimo Apache
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 250; Flight Crew Total 3500; Flight Crew Type 120
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown; General Maintenance Action; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft
While departing [to the east] on a visual flight rules flight; I experienced a loss of power on the left engine while on initial climb; less than 200 FT. I immediately advised Tower that I needed to return for landing. The Controller offered me a choice of runways. At that point I advised him that I would gain some altitude before making any turn back to the airport. Once I secured the left engine; I declared an emergency and requested Runway 27R. I was able to climb and maintain 250 FT and at that point I commenced a turn back towards Runway 27R. The Tower Controller cleared me to land Runway 27R and I was able to land the aircraft without further incident. Once clear of the runway; I was given clearance to taxi back to the ramp. I replied and attempted to concur with the clearance; but I was unable to make the taxiway due to the single engine taxi circumstance. At that point; the Ground Controller realized my position and reminded me of my taxi instructions; and that's when I immediately asked him to allow me to taxi via Taxiway Alpha; which was straight ahead. He acknowledged and re-cleared me to taxi via Alpha; to the ramp. Once at the ramp; before I signed off the radio frequency; I asked the Ground Controller I he needed for me to contact the Tower for a written statement. The Ground Controller advised me that it was not necessary and to have a good night. I then advised the aircraft mechanic and grounded the aircraft.
PA23 pilot experienced a loss of power just after takeoff and declared an emergency with the Tower. After securing the left engine the pilot is able to return and land opposite direction on the departure runway. 250 FT AGL is the maximum altitude attained during the flight.