Loss of Control During Simulated Engine Failure on Instructional Flight (N1877J)

Accident Details

The airplane sustained substantial damage during a loss of control while on short final for landing during an instructional flight.

Sequence of Events

The instructor pilot reported that the airplane was on the downwind leg and was about to turn onto the base leg when he reduced engine power and informed the dual student that an engine failure had occurred (simulated). The dual student turned the airplane toward the runway. When the airplane had just cleared some trees and was approximately 50 to 60 feet above ground level, the dual student released the yoke and told the instructor that it was "his airplane." The instructor pilot stated that he took control of the yoke and banked sharply toward the runway. He noticed a high sink rate and "called for power but none was applied." The instructor pilot reported that the airplane stalled at about 20 feet above ground level and subsequently contacted the runway and a snow bank.

Instructor Statement

In a written statement, the instructor pilot remarked, "We should have had a more positive change of command. I was wondering when he was going to add power and apparently he thought that I was flying the plane."