Accident Details
The pilot reported that after taking off from runway 06, at an altitude of approximately 400-500 feet above ground level, he closed the throttle to simulate an engine failure. Subsequently, he executed a 180-degree turn back toward the airport to practice a simulated forced landing. During this maneuver, the aircraft's sink rate increased to a greater rate than expected. The pilot then applied full throttle, but the engine did not respond.
Impact and Aftermath
The aircraft impacted grassy terrain short of and to the right of the runway. After impact, the aircraft slid approximately 130 feet. A post-crash fire ensued.
Pilot Experience and Aircraft History
The pilot stated that he had a total of 11 flight hours in this make and model of aircraft, all of which were obtained in the accident aircraft. He noted that the aircraft had sat unused for three years prior to his purchasing it, and that it had received an annual inspection one week before the accident. The engine carburetor was reportedly equipped with a 'leather-skirt' type accelerator pump.