What happened
During a type-rating check ride, the crew was performing a simulated single-engine approach when the aircraft began to lose altitude abruptly. The flight was being conducted with a designated pilot examiner in the jump seat, an applicant in the left seat, and a second-in-command (SIC) in the right seat. To simulate the necessary conditions for the check ride, the instructor directed the SIC to reduce power on one engine.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the crew encountered significant turbulence and a sudden gust of wind. Approximately one mile from the runway threshold, the pilot extended the flaps to 40 degrees after noticing the aircraft was high on the approach. At an altitude of roughly 400 feet mean sea level, the aircraft began to sink rapidly. In an attempt to recover, both pilots applied full power to both engines while the applicant increased the pitch to 12 degrees. Despite these efforts, the aircraft type/model (unspecified) continued its descent and struck the ground short of the landing threshold. The impact resulted in a post-impact fire that destroyed the plane. No fatalities or injuries were reported in the provided account.
Findings
An unexpected wind shear event or severe gust was a primary factor in the rapid loss of altitude. The crew's difficulty in maintaining the approach was exacerbated by the decision to simulate a single-engine configuration during unstable atmospheric conditions. The pilot noted that a better understanding of the prevailing wind conditions prior to the landing attempt might have prevented the accident.