What happened
During a flight training session at Villeneuve Airport, Alberta, an instructor and student were conducting pattern work in a Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon. Following a touch-and-go landing on runway 26, the air traffic controller instructed the crew to sequence behind a Cessna 172 that was on final approach for runway 16.
Upon noticing the other aircraft, the instructor took control of the Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon and initiated a steep climbing turn to the right to avoid a potential collision. At an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the aircraft's airspeed decreased significantly, causing the plane to pitch nose down and enter a stall. Although the instructor attempted to recover, the aircraft's low altitude prevented a full recovery. The left wing tip and the right main landing gear struck the snow-covered ground, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. The two occupants escaped the crash without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined radar tracings, witness reports, and the aircraft's maintenance records. Analysis of the radar data suggested that if the pilot had continued a straight-out departure or simply moved slightly right of the centerline as instructed by the tower, the aircraft likely would have passed safely behind the Cessna 172.
Technical examination of the Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon confirmed the aircraft was within weight and center of gravity limits and was properly maintained. The investigation also noted that the instructor's view of the instrument panel was partially obstructed by the student in the front seat, leading the instructor to focus his attention outside the cockpit during the maneuver.