Incident Overview
During a training flight configured for a short field landing practice on Runway 24, the dual student established the proper glidepath and airspeed. As the airplane crossed the threshold, the student inadvertently moved both power levers into reverse pitch, causing the airplane to veer sharply to the left and then pitch nose-down.
Pilot Response
The certified flight instructor (CFI) immediately advanced both power levers to full power and applied right rudder and up elevator inputs. Despite these corrective actions, the airplane continued to pitch downward and landed hard.
Damage
The hard landing resulted in structural damage to the wing spars and engine mounts. No other damage was reported.
Operational Context
The flight was conducted as a dual instructional flight practicing short field landing procedures. No other aircraft or personnel were involved.