Incident Overview
A pilot was receiving flight instruction and an instrument proficiency check (IPC) from a flight instructor. After an hour of uneventful instruction, the IPC began. During the first takeoff of the check, the pilot was at the flight controls while the flight instructor managed the throttles. The pilot typically set approximately 40 inches of manifold pressure for takeoff, but the instructor set about 37 inches, resulting in a longer-than-expected takeoff roll.
Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of less than 100 feet with the landing gear extended, the flight instructor retarded the left throttle at an indicated airspeed between 83 and 85 knots. The minimum single-engine control speed for the airplane was 85 knots. The pilot attempted to advance the throttles but was unable to do so because the instructor's hand was already on them. The airplane subsequently veered sharply to the left and rolled. The pilot managed to level the wings just before the aircraft collided with trees and terrain.
Procedural and Operational Details
The pilot reported that procedures for simulating or demonstrating an engine failure were never discussed prior to the flight. Although the flight instructor's total experience in the accident airplane make and model was not determined, he stated before the flight that he had not flown that type of airplane recently. Additionally, the instructor was taking medication for type II diabetes. According to his wife, he had not experienced seizures or loss of consciousness as a result of his medical condition.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as determined by the official investigation, was the flight instructor's initiation of a simulated single-engine scenario at or below the airplane's minimum single-engine control speed, resulting in a loss of airplane control. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor's failure to set full engine power during the takeoff roll and his lack of recent experience in the airplane make and model.