What happened
On 7 September 2006, a Piper PA28R-200, registration ZS-JIC, was conducting a remedial training flight near Grahamstown Aerodrome. The flight, which originated from Port Alfred Aerodrome, was intended to help a student pilot practice circuits and simulated engine failure procedures.
Following a successful go-around and a touch-and-go landing on Runway 34, the instructor simulated an engine failure at an altitude of roughly 700 feet. In response, the student pilot reduced engine RPM, selected an open field to the right of the runway centerline, and deployed the undercarriage and flaps. However, during the subsequent approach, the aircraft descended below the necessary altitude. The instructor was forced to intervene and take control to attempt a go-around.
During this maneuver, the instructor spotted an antenna to the left and then identified power lines. Due to insufficient altitude to clear the wires, the instructor attempted to fly underneath them. The aircraft's left main undercarriage struck the center power line, causing the plane to veer left. The left wing then hit the ground, leading to a ground loop to the right. The aircraft finally came to rest after striking an anthill. Both occupants escaped the aircraft unharmed.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the sequence of flight maneuvers and the instructor's decision-making during the simulated emergency. The investigation focused on the altitude loss during the student's handling of the simulated failure and the subsequent encounter with the overhead obstructions.