Incident Overview
A training flight involving a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot resulted in substantial aircraft damage after the airplane departed the runway and collided with a runway light. The event occurred during a simulated engine failure exercise conducted at the start of the takeoff ground roll.
Sequence of Events
The CFI informed the student that an engine failure would be simulated during the takeoff roll and subsequently reduced power on the right throttle. The instructor anticipated that the student would apply appropriate corrective inputs to maintain directional control. However, the airplane began to drift to the right side of the runway. The CFI then pulled both throttles but discovered that the brake controls on his side were not functional. He responded by increasing throttle power, at which point the airplane "violently swerved and rolled" to the left and became airborne. The aircraft continued to drift down the runway in ground effect before the CFI regained control and continued the departure.
Post-Incident Actions
Following the initial incident, the CFI and student performed an additional practice stop-and-go landing. While taxiing back after that landing, they observed that the left wing tip was missing. They then returned to their home base.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage, including the loss of the left wing tip. No other damage details were provided.
Probable Cause
Not determined based on available information.