Incident Overview
A multi-engine airplane engaged in flight instruction experienced a runway excursion during a takeoff maneuver. According to the pilot receiving instruction, the flight crew briefed a simulated engine failure during the runup. During the takeoff roll, the flight instructor reduced the left engine throttle, causing the airplane to veer left. The student pilot reported losing control, after which the instructor took over the flight controls. The airplane lifted off into ground effect, the left wing struck the ground, and the aircraft exited the runway, coming to rest in the adjacent grass.
Instructor's Account
The flight instructor, seated in the right seat, stated that after he reduced power on the left engine, the student became confused by the sudden left yaw and did not react. The instructor repeatedly instructed the student to abort the takeoff. Brakes were installed only on the left side (pilot's side), so the instructor could not apply brakes. The student pilot panicked, moved the left throttle to full, remained locked on the controls, and applied back pressure on the yoke. The instructor continued attempting to take over the controls as the airplane entered ground effect. Eventually, the instructor gained control and, as the airplane settled to the ground, reduced both throttles to idle. The airplane touched down in a left yawing, slight left bank attitude, causing the landing gear to collapse. The aircraft skidded left on the runway, rotated counterclockwise, exited the runway, and came to rest in the grass.
Damage and Mechanical Condition
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. Both the pilot and instructor reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.