Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a student pilot were conducting a simulated forced landing exercise over a private grass airstrip. The scenario was intended to train the student in engine-out procedures.
Sequence of Events
While recovering from the simulated forced landing, the engine hesitated and sputtered when power was reapplied. The flight instructor assumed control of the airplane and executed a precautionary landing on the airstrip below.
After landing, the instructor performed an engine run-up and observed a substantial magneto drop. The magneto issue was cleared, and the instructor configured the airplane for a soft field takeoff to depart the airstrip.
During the takeoff, the instructor 'popped' the airplane to clear a barbed wire fence located at the departure end of the strip. The landing gear contacted the barbed wire, causing structural damage to the right horizontal stabilizer.
Post-Incident Actions
Despite the damage, the flight instructor was able to fly the airplane to a nearby airport without further incident. No other issues were reported during the flight to the airport.