What happened
During a scheduled proficiency check for a first officer, the pilot-in-command was conducting maneuvers designed to simulate an engine failure at V1 speed. As the regional jet reached takeoff decision speed, the pilot-in-command intentionally reduced the left engine throttle to idle. Following this action, the first officer reported a positive rate of climb and initiated the gear retraction process.
As the pilot-in-command attempted to reach for the landing gear lever, the aircraft began an intense roll to the left. The pilot noted that the banking angle was increasing at a dangerous rate and observed that the left rudder pedal had moved to its maximum limit. Upon taking control of the aircraft, the pilot applied full right aileron and right rudder input. Although the aircraft began to recover from the bank, it struck the ground shortly thereafter.
Flight data analysis indicated that the period between the reduction of engine power and the impact was approximately 8 seconds. The aircraft became airborne roughly 2 seconds after the throttle was retarded, and the roll reached a 71-degree angle within 6 seconds of the power reduction. Physical evidence at the site showed that the left wing made contact with the ground before the right wing.
Findings
Investigations into the airframe, engines, and flight control systems found no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that contributed to the crash. The first officer had accumulated 15 hours of experience in this specific aircraft type over the preceding 90 days. The accident was caused by improper rudder application by the first officer during the simulated failure and a delay in corrective action by the pilot-in-command.