Event Description
A student pilot had completed four full-stop landings and then departed to remain in the traffic pattern. The student performed a low pass over the runway. At the midpoint of the runway, the student pitched up to climb, removed carburetor heat, applied full throttle, and removed one notch of flaps (to the 30-degree position). The student then pitched for best climb but reported that the aircraft began to lose altitude. He verified that the carburetor heat was off and the throttle was forward, and noted that the airspeed was at or just above 60 mph. He retracted the flaps to 20 degrees, but stated that this did not seem to help.
The student then advised the certified flight instructor (CFI) to take control of the airplane. The CFI rechecked the position of the carburetor heat and throttle and, recognizing that the flight could not return to the runway, maneuvered the airplane toward a clearing. While descending, the airplane collided with a power line, a fence, and then the ground.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination of the aircraft revealed sufficient fuel and no contaminants in the fuel system. Examination of the engine by the operator revealed no preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction.
Pilot Operating Handbook Reference
Review of the airplane's pilot operating handbook indicated that when performing a balked landing, the procedure is to reduce the flaps to 20 degrees immediately after full power is applied.