Accident Summary
During a visual approach to runway 18, the student pilot and flight instructor experienced a wind shear or gust condition at an altitude of approximately 25 feet above the ground over the runway. The airplane rapidly lost airspeed and sank suddenly.
Sequence of Events
The flight instructor, noticing the loss of airspeed and descent, took control of the airplane and applied full power. Despite this action, the airplane continued to sink. The flight instructor reported that the left wing was pushed downward, causing the airplane to bank left. The airplane subsequently struck trees located about 10 to 20 feet off the side of the runway.
Findings
The flight instructor stated that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane. The encounter was attributed to wind shear or gust conditions near the runway.