Incident Details
During a training flight, a student pilot was attempting a short-field takeoff on a 2,360-foot-long asphalt runway. As the takeoff roll began, the flight instructor reduced the right engine throttle to simulate an engine failure. In response, the student pilot reduced the left engine throttle and began braking. The flight instructor then instructed the student pilot to resume the takeoff.
The flight instructor stated that the airplane accelerated normally to a rotation speed of about 63 knots. The student pilot indicated that the airplane was not lifting off, and the flight instructor elected to abort the takeoff. When the airplane was about halfway down the runway, the flight instructor retarded the throttle, propeller, and mixture controls and began braking. He then realized the engines were still producing power. The flight instructor further stated that by the time he again reached for the engine controls, it was too late to stop.
The airplane departed the end of the runway, rolled through a ditch, and came to rest in a field.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airplane did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions. Additionally, the flight instructor did not report any mechanical issues.