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Wheel Falls Off Airplane During Student Solo

While student pilot Maggie Taraska landed on the runway, the Piper PA-28 was damaged as it swerved off into the grass. Beverly Regional Airport
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • 17-year-old student pilot Maggie Taraska successfully landed a Piper PA-28 after its right main wheel and strut detached shortly after takeoff during a solo flight.
  • Despite the highly stressful situation, Taraska remained composed, guided by a calm air traffic controller and her instructor, who was brought to the tower to coach her.
  • The landing resulted in the plane veering off the runway and sustaining significant damage, but Taraska walked away with only minor aches and pains.
  • The incident showcased exceptional teamwork and emergency preparedness, and Maggie remains determined to continue her flight training.
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17-year old student pilot Maggie Taraska did a fantastic job during a highly unusual solo flight this weekend at the Beverly Regional Airport (BVY), located just north of the Boston metropolitan area and under Logan International’s (BOS) Class B airspace.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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