On March 6, 2005, a Piper PA-44-180 (registration N21427) was involved in an aviation accident near Opa Locka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The dual student's improper descent rate during a simulated engine failure and simulated forced landing and the CFI's inadequate remedial action which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a training flight at Opa Locka Airport, a CFI and student experienced a high descent rate during a simulated engine failure. After landing, an abnormal noise was heard, and inspection revealed fuselage damage. No mechanical issues were reported.
Incident Summary
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a dual student were conducting instrument approaches and landings at Opa Locka Airport. During a takeoff, the CFI indicated a simulated engine failure to the student. The student then retarded the throttles and initiated a descent to land.
Sequence of Events
While descending, both the CFI and the student noted a higher than normal descent rate. They corrected by applying back pressure on the control column and adding engine power. After touchdown, the CFI heard an abnormal noise and decided to taxi the airplane to the ramp. Once the airplane was secured, the CFI conducted an inspection and found damage to the fuselage, terminating the flight. The pilots stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the incident.