What happened
On February 27, 2012, a Neiva 56-C-1, registration PP-HOR, was conducting a series of touch-and-go landings as part of a Private Pilot (PPR) training flight at the Aeroclube de Santa Catarina (SSKT) in São José, Brazil. Following the eighth landing performed by the student, the instructor took control of the aircraft with the intention of demonstrating a takeoff deviation and observing the student's corrective actions.
During the subsequent takeoff roll, the instructor applied right rudder to induce a deviation from the runway centerline. The instructor expected the student to take over the controls and correct the aircraft's trajectory; however, the student did not perform the expected corrections. In an attempt to rectify the situation, the instructor applied power and attempted to correct the error using rudder input. The aircraft departed the runway at a 90-degree angle from the takeoff axis, striking a fence and a tree located approximately 45 meters to the right of the runway. The impact caused substantial damage to the fuselage, engine, propeller, cabin, and wings. Both occupants sustained light injuries.
The investigation
The investigation established that the instructor and student were both operating under valid medical and technical certifications. The aircraft was within weight and balance limits, and all maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were up to date.
Investigators focused on the lack of communication and preparation prior to the maneuver. It was determined that the takeoff deviation simulation had not been established during the pre-flight briefing. Furthermore, there was no agreed-upon protocol or specific "call out" (such as "You have control" or "I have control") to signal the transition of control between the instructor and the student during the maneuver.