Accident Summary
A student pilot was returning to the airport to practice landings, including a practice engine-out approach and landing. During the simulated engine-out landing, the airplane's left wing struck the ground while the aircraft was turning toward the runway.
Witness Observations
A witness reported observing the airplane make a turn and appear to parallel the runway while descending to 500 feet above ground level (AGL) or less. At an altitude of 200 or 300 feet AGL, the aircraft rolled into a left bank of 60 to 80 degrees toward the runway. The airplane then appeared to stall, and the left wing impacted the ground. The witness further stated that at no time did they hear engine noise or changes in power, consistent with a power-off or idle power setting.
Flight Instructor Account
The flight instructor reported that the left turn and bank initially appeared to be a normal standard rate turn but suddenly became very steep. The instructor had reminded the student that during the practice engine-out procedure, the student could add power if they felt the airplane was getting too low. The flight was conducted in preparation for the student's single-engine land airplane private pilot examination.
Aircraft Examination
No structural or mechanical anomalies were observed during an examination of the airplane.