Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was providing takeoff and landing instruction to his son, a student pilot, during a training flight. After completing one takeoff and landing, the pair departed again on Runway 22.
Sequence of Events
At lift-off, the CFI observed a Cessna 180 being taxied for takeoff. When the training aircraft reached approximately 300 feet above ground level, the pilot executed a right turn-around to pass over the airport at midfield and maintain visual contact with the Cessna. The Cessna remained in the run-up area, so the student pilot then turned to parallel a ridge line that angled toward the runway centerline and extended beyond the approach end of Runway 22.
While the CFI was looking over his left shoulder to monitor the Cessna's position, he instructed the student to turn right, back toward the runway. This turn directed the aircraft back toward the ridge line, which rose 150 to 200 feet above the aircraft's altitude. Upon realizing the proximity of the hill, the CFI took control of the aircraft to prevent a stall, but was unable to clear trees along the ridge.
Outcome
The aircraft struck branches and blackberry bushes, then, after touching down, collided with a tree. The accident investigation is ongoing.