Accident Details
The aircraft stalled approximately 30 feet above the runway during a practice short-field landing, leading to a hard landing. The wings and fuselage sustained structural damage. The multi-engine rated pilot was undergoing instruction from a certified flight instructor (CFI) in preparation for obtaining a commercial certificate.
Pilot and Instructor Accounts
The pilot reported that the CFI urged him to fly slower than he considered prudent, and he reluctantly complied. He noted that he was flying the aircraft based on airspeed indications in miles per hour (MPH). The CFI stated that he instructed the pilot to reduce speed to 76 knots, and he believed the pilot instead slowed to 76 MPH. The airspeed indicator displayed readings in both knots and MPH.
Aircraft Condition
An FAA inspector reported that the aircraft's stall warning system was inoperative, and that the pilot, who was also the aircraft owner, was aware of this condition. The CFI had accumulated 37 total flight hours in this make and model of aircraft.
Reporting
Neither the pilot nor the CFI reported the accident to authorities. The FAA later learned of the event from a third party.