The student pilot stated he was established on final approach and “everything was on track.” When the airplane crossed the threshold, he reduced engine power and began the landing flare. After touchdown, the student pilot applied the brakes, which resulted in a skid he was unable to control. The airplane subsequently departed the runway pavement and came to rest in a ditch. The left main landing gear collapsed. The student pilot was performing his first landing on his initial solo flight at the time of the accident. He noted that the skies were clear and the winds were calm. The pilot reported that he had accumulated 13 hours total flight time, with nine hours in the same make and model airplane. A post-accident inspection did not reveal any anomalies associated with a pre-impact failure or malfunction.
October 1, 2008, Crookston, Minn. Piper PA-28-161
The student pilot stated he was established on final approach and "everything was on track." When the airplane crossed the threshold, he reduced engine power and began the landing flare. After touchdown, the student pilot applied the brakes, which resulted in a skid he was unable to control. The airplane subsequently departed the runway pavement and came to rest in a ditch. The left main landing gear collapsed.
Key Takeaways:
- A student pilot on his initial solo flight experienced an uncontrolled skid after applying brakes during his first landing.
- The airplane subsequently departed the runway pavement, came to rest in a ditch, and its left main landing gear collapsed.
- The incident occurred under clear skies and calm winds, with no pre-impact mechanical anomalies found on the aircraft.
- The student pilot had limited experience, having accumulated only 13 hours of total flight time.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
