Accident Overview
A C-31OJ aircraft went out of control on the runway and collided with a dirt bank during a practice flight. The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) stated that the aircraft was performing single-engine procedures in the traffic pattern.
Sequence of Events
After touching down on a single-engine approach, the CFI returned control of the left engine to the student and announced a go-around. The initial climb was established, and directional control was maintained for two to three seconds. At four feet above ground level (AGL), the aircraft began to yaw and roll to the left. The CFI reached for the flight controls and power levers, but the student had already reduced power. The aircraft righted itself and touched down with a heading 20 to 30 degrees left of the centerline. It departed the runway, crossed a taxiway, and struck a four-foot dirt bank.
Witness Statements
According to FAA Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) personnel who witnessed the accident, the aircraft did not perform a closed traffic pattern with a toggle prior to the accident. The local controller stated that he had cleared the aircraft for takeoff and to remain in right closed traffic after the aircraft had taxied back from a full-stop landing. This statement was confirmed by the ATCT tape and is documented by transcript.