What happened
During a routine training session at Decatur Airport, the crew was conducting a series of touch-and-go maneuvers. While on final approach to runway 24, the instructor decided to execute a simulation of a right engine failure. To prepare for the maneuver, the instructor turned off the yaw damper system while the aircraft was positioned approximately 10 to 20 feet above the runway surface.
As the aircraft's speed increased, the instructor issued two calls for speed following the co-pilot's reduction of power on the left engine. This maneuver caused the aircraft to roll toward the right, leading the right wingtip to make contact with the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to lose control and veer off the runway. The resulting accident caused the aircraft to burst into flames. Both pilots managed to exit the wreckage with minor injuries, though the aircraft was destroyed.
Findings
- The instructor deactivated the yaw damper system in anticipation of the simulated engine failure.
- The reduction of power on the left engine during the simulation triggered a roll to the right.