Maneuver Announcement and Flight
Witnesses reported hearing the pilot announce over the UNICOM frequency an intention to perform a simulated engine failure after takeoff from runway 01, with a planned return to land on runway 19. Multiple observers watched the airplane depart from runway 01 and climb in a nose-high attitude until it stalled. According to one witness, the airplane then descended straight down. Another witness described the airplane entering a stall followed by a continual right bank until it struck trees.
Post-Event Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical deficiencies. The aircraft appeared to have been operating normally prior to the stall.
Training Context
A pilot who flew with the instructor on the morning of the accident noted that the instructor emphasized emergency landing procedures after takeoff. The pair practiced the maneuver twice: once at 900 feet and once at 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL). The instructor would reduce power at the target altitude, and the pilot would pitch for best glide speed (80 knots) and execute a 45-degree bank to return to the airport.
Reference to Published Guidance
Examination of the Beechcraft Pilot Proficiency Program Flight Instructor's Teaching Guide stated that a turn back following power loss on takeoff should be performed at a minimum altitude of 1,200 feet AGL and 1.7 to 1.9 nautical miles upwind from the start of the climb. The FAA-H-8083-3, Airplane Flying Handbook, notes that if an actual engine failure occurs immediately after takeoff before a safe maneuvering altitude is attained, it is usually inadvisable to attempt to turn back; instead, it recommends establishing the proper glide attitude and selecting a field ahead or slightly to the side of the takeoff path.