Accident Overview
A private pilot and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were conducting a Biennial Flight Review (BFR) instructional flight. For the purpose of the flight, the private pilot was considered the pilot-in-command (PIC). The CFI reported that when the aircraft was at 3,500 feet above ground level (AGL), he retarded the throttle to simulate an engine failure. The private pilot established the aircraft in a pattern to the airport.
Flight Details
After crossing over the airport at about 1,200 feet AGL, the private pilot maneuvered to land on Runway 31. However, on final approach, the aircraft entered a rapid sink rate and subsequently hit a fence before reaching the runway. The flaps were retracted at the time of impact.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft, at 3,500 feet AGL, experienced a simulated engine failure initiated by the CFI. The private pilot set up an approach to the airport, crossing overhead at 1,200 feet AGL. On final approach for Runway 31, the aircraft developed a high rate of descent and impacted a fence short of the runway. Examination of the aircraft revealed the flaps were in the retracted position at the moment of impact.