Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were conducting a training flight. The CFI initiated a simulated engine power loss at approximately 2,200 feet above ground level (AGL) by either pulling the mixture control or turning off the fuel selector; the CFI could not recall which method was used. The intent was for the student to practice emergency procedures for a simulated forced landing.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after the simulation began, the engine completely lost power. The student established a glide and followed the appropriate emergency procedures checklist. During the checklist, the student discovered that the fuel selector was in the off position. The selector was turned back on, but attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The airplane then performed a forced landing in a soft field, during which it nosed over.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of any pre-impact mechanical malfunction or failure. The FAA Flight Training Handbook (AC 61-21A) indicates that a simulated power loss should be initiated by retarding the engine throttle, not by manipulating the mixture control or fuel selector.