On April 23, 1994, a Bellanca 7GCAA (registration N86862) was involved in an aviation accident near Azle, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE INSTRUCTOR PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN TERRAIN AND OBSTACLE CLEARANCE. A FACTOR WAS THE INSTRUCTOR'S DIVERTED ATTENTION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During simulated engine failure training, a flight instructor and pilot experienced a hard bank and descent, resulting in collision with a tree and post-impact fire.
Incident Overview
During a training flight, a flight instructor was conducting simulated engine failures with a rated pilot who was being checked out in the airplane. According to the student pilot, the instructor pilot took control of the aircraft and performed a hard bank to the right, followed by a roll to the left. The aircraft crossed a fence line at the edge of a clearing while at approximately 200 feet altitude. The rate of descent changed from 500 feet per minute to a 'very large negative number.' Full power was applied when the forced landing maneuver was terminated.
Instructor's Account
The instructor reported that he turned his head to the left to locate the airport. At that moment, he felt a downdraft and then noticed a tree directly ahead. The aircraft subsequently impacted the tree, causing the right fuel cell to rupture. A post-impact fire ensued, consuming the airplane.
Outcome
The accident resulted in the destruction of the aircraft due to the impact and fire.