Cessna T182T N946CA accident near Silver Springs, Nevada

Probable cause

The flight instructor’s failure to maintain a proper descent rate during a simulated engine failure, which resulted in a bounced landing.

NTSB analysis

The flight instructor reported that the purpose of the flight was to provide a proficiency checkout for the pilot, which is an organizational requirement before pilots are authorized to fly their airplanes.

After completing area work, they returned to the airport. The pilot landed the airplane and taxied back to the departure end of the runway. The flight instructor then assumed control of the airplane to demonstrate a rejected takeoff after a simulated engine failure. About 50 to 100 ft above the ground, he retarded the throttle, lowered the flaps to 40°, and lowered the nose. An excessive sink rate developed, and the airplane touched down slightly nose up, bounced, then rolled to a stop.

Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the fuselage.

The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA533 for the full record.