Accident Summary
A flight instructor reported that a student pilot conducted a normal takeoff from a turf runway. During the departure leg, the instructor initiated a simulated engine failure. As the student pilot flew the approach, the instructor observed a deterioration in airspeed. When the instructor attempted to take control of the airplane, the student pilot did not release the controls. A sink rate developed, and the airplane struck a power line short of the runway. Upon ground impact, both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The student pilot could not recall the accident sequence due to injuries sustained.
Narrative
The training flight began with a standard departure from a grass landing area. Shortly after lift-off, the flight instructor introduced a simulated power loss scenario to practice emergency procedures. The student pilot initially maneuvered the aircraft toward the runway for a forced landing. However, as the approach progressed, the indicated airspeed decreased. The instructor recognized the developing situation and moved to assume command, but the student pilot maintained a firm grip on the flight controls, preventing a smooth transfer of control. Consequently, the aircraft began to sink rapidly and impacted an overhead power line before reaching the runway threshold. The collision caused significant structural damage to the wings and fuselage. Following the accident, the student pilot was unable to provide a recollection of the events, citing injuries as the reason for the memory lapse.