Beech E 55 N1908L accident near Blountville, Tennessee

Probable cause

The pilot's delayed reaction and loss of directional control while performing a simulated engine failure during the takeoff roll. A factor in the accident was the CFI's delayed reaction to the loss of directional control.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot and the certificated flight instructor (CFI), the intent of the flight was a proficiency check required by the pilot's insurance carrier, and that the accident occurred while performing a simulated engine failure during the takeoff roll. The pilot reported that after the CFI retarded the power on an engine, the airplane veered to the right. As the airplane exited the edge of the runway he attempted to ground loop it in order to avoid an antenna that was directly in their path. The CFI reported that the pilot "delayed in retarding the power." The CFI subsequently retarded both mixtures, in an attempt to stop the airplane. The airplane subsequently impacted an antenna, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage of the airplane. The CFI reported no abnormities with the airplane prior to the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14CA040 for the full record.