Accident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a commercial pilot-undergoing-instruction (PUI) were conducting a training flight focused on commercial-level takeoff and landing requirements. The CFI was preparing the PUI for her CFI certificate.
Sequence of Events
After departure, the airplane entered the airport traffic pattern. While on the downwind leg, the pilots completed the landing checklist but delayed landing gear extension because they intended to perform a 180-degree power-off approach. On final approach, as they prepared to extend the landing gear, the air traffic control tower controller instructed them to conduct a go-around because the landing gear was not extended. They extended the landing gear, and the CFI verified three green lights. The CFI then requested permission to land, and the tower controller cleared the airplane to land.
Hard Landing
As the airplane approached the runway, a high sink rate developed. The CFI told the PUI to add power while simultaneously starting to move the throttle control forward. The CFI indicated that his hand slipped past the PUI's hand, and he reached again to push the throttle forward when the airplane touched down hard on the runway.
Aftermath
The pilots aborted the landing. After conducting a low approach to verify the position of the landing gear, they landed uneventfully. A post-accident examination revealed rib damage to the left wing. The CFI reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.