Incident Overview
An instructional flight experienced an engine power loss during a touch-and-go landing sequence. The aircraft had been airborne for approximately 45 minutes when the instructor directed the pilot to return to the airport and land. Upon entering the traffic pattern, the pilot was instructed to perform touch-and-go landings. After completing two such maneuvers, while attempting the third takeoff, a loss of power was reported on the left engine.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft was airborne at the time of the power loss and began a left turn. The instructor then took over the controls and turned the aircraft back toward the runway heading, which placed them over a sod strip parallel to the original runway. The instructor raised the landing gear, and the aircraft initially started a slow climb but then began settling toward the ground. Noticing obstructions ahead, the instructor moved the throttle and propeller levers aft. During the attempted off-airport landing, the left wing contacted the ground, causing the aircraft to cartwheel.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that neither pilot feathered the left engine, which had produced a power differential. However, the cause of the reported power loss was not determined.