Accident Details
A student pilot and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were conducting touch-and-go landings at an airport. During the third touch-and-go, the student rotated the aircraft and initiated a climb. The CFI noticed that the aircraft was not climbing and that the flaps had not retracted, despite the flap indicator switch being in the flap up (zero degree) position. The CFI lowered the nose and recycled the flaps, but they remained extended.
With a municipal complex, a school, and a busy street ahead, the CFI decided to turn the aircraft back toward the airport. During the turn, the aircraft collided with the ground and crashed.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident investigation did not verify any preimpact mechanical problems with the aircraft.