Incident Overview
A pilot was demonstrating forced landing procedures to a passenger. During the descent for the simulated forced landing, the aircraft cleared 50-foot-tall trees by approximately 25 feet. The aircraft then continued descending until it impacted the ground. During the landing roll, the right wing separated from the aircraft after striking a tree.
Pilot Actions
The pilot-in-command (PIC) did not inform the passenger of the altitude at which the procedure would be aborted. The passenger reported that there was no engine failure or malfunction during the event.
Sequence of Events
The maneuver began as a normal descent for a simulated forced landing. The aircraft passed over trees with 25 feet of clearance, then descended further until ground contact. After touchdown, the aircraft rolled into a tree, causing the right wing to detach.
Operational Context
The flight was conducted for instructional purposes, with the pilot demonstrating emergency landing techniques. The lack of a predetermined abort altitude was noted by the passenger.
Aircraft Damage
The primary damage was the separation of the right wing following impact with a tree during the landing roll. Additional damage to the aircraft structure would be expected from the ground impact and subsequent roll.
Pilot Experience
The source does not provide specific information about the pilot's total flight time or experience level. The passenger's account indicates no mechanical issues with the aircraft.
Conclusion
The incident occurred during a training flight involving a simulated forced landing. The aircraft struck a tree after descending through an area with 50-foot-tall trees, leading to wing separation.