What is the AFM?? and what does it say:
The real issue here is what the Aircraft Flight Manual [AFM] says - which is the only legal way the aircraft can be operated.
In the case that I have used, which is relevant to the PA-30 "caused prang" at Camden.
The flight manual is as below and it says that simulated engine failure should be performed at an altitude that will allow for enough room for safe recovery (5000FT min. terrain clearance is recommended) should control of the aircraft be lost.
The AFM for a PA30-160 [A,B and C] is below.:
We must read and obey the AFM.
It is there for our safety, otherwise we are entering the world of a "test pilot".