Event Summary
The airplane collided with a hangar during a go-around. The flight crew entered the traffic pattern and completed one touch-and-go landing. The crew then requested, and the controller cleared them, for a simulated single-engine full-stop landing on runway 24. The controller noted that the touch-and-go approach and landing appeared unremarkable.
Approach and Descent
During the single-engine full-stop approach, the controller observed the airplane making a short approach with wings rocking back and forth. The airplane appeared low and could possibly land short of the runway. As it approached the end of the runway, it began to veer to the left from the flight crew's perspective. The controller stated it appeared headed directly for the control tower as it continued to drift left. The airplane stayed low to the ground, and the controller had the impression the flight crew was attempting to climb. The wing lights continued rocking back and forth as the airplane drifted left, crossing the dirt infield and a taxiway while still airborne.
Collision
The bank angle then increased sharply to the left, and the airplane disappeared behind some hangars. The controller estimated the airplane was 1,500 feet from the approach end of the runway when he observed a fireball and alerted rescue crews.
Medical Findings
The instructor pilot's autopsy revealed undiagnosed lung cancer that had metastasized to his brain. The brain showed evidence of severe swelling with disruption of normal brain structure. The instructor pilot had been prescribed tramadol, a pain medication, which was found in his blood at a level consistent with regular use at least at the prescribed dose. Tramadol is known to increase the risk for seizures, particularly in patients with other potential seizure risks.
Probable Cause
The effects of the brain swelling and the medication likely produced seizure activity in the instructor, which could have significantly interfered with aircraft controls and made it difficult or impossible for the student to adequately control the aircraft.