Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) conducted a simulated total loss of engine power for a practice forced landing with a student. The exercise took place as the aircraft approached a crop duster airstrip situated on a small bluff. During the approach, the aircraft encountered a downdraft.
Sequence of Events
The student retracted the wing flaps from 40 to 25 degrees. Despite this adjustment, the airplane descended below the desired glide path. The CFI permitted the student to continue the approach before directing a go-around. Engine power was applied rapidly. Seconds later, as power was increasing, the airplane struck a residential service power line and an unoccupied house. The aircraft came to rest approximately 550 feet short of the airstrip.
Operator Guidance
The operator that employed the CFI had provided written guidance regarding the minimum altitude for initiating go-arounds during simulated forced landings. The operator's Procedures and Techniques manual stated: "Every go around from a simulated engine failure shall be performed by the student prior to 500 feet AGL if not approaching a paved runway."
Damage and Injuries
The airplane sustained damage from the impact with the power line and house. No injuries were reported. The house was unoccupied at the time of the accident.
Investigation Findings
The investigation report documented the events as described. No explicit probable cause was stated in the source material.