Incident Overview
A flight instructor was conducting a training flight with a private pilot in a multiengine airplane. The instructor reported that shortly after the airplane began its takeoff roll, she pulled the left throttle to idle to simulate an engine failure. In response, the private pilot "froze." The instructor then instructed him to bring both engines to idle and apply brakes, which he did, but by that time the airplane was already veering to the left.
Sequence of Events
The flight instructor took control of the airplane and shut off power to each engine. Despite these actions, the airplane continued off the runway and impacted an embankment. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.
The private pilot stated that when the simulated engine failure occurred, he responded by reducing thrust on both engines, applying the brakes, and attempting to maintain directional control. He noted, "Despite the measures taken, the plane skidded off the runway."
Mechanical Status
The flight instructor reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Investigation
No additional information regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or potential injuries was provided in the source.