Incident Overview
A student pilot departed Falls River, Massachusetts, on a solo cross-country training flight destined for Albany, New York. After opening the flight plan, the pilot encountered radio difficulties. Instead of continuing to the original destination, the pilot elected to land at Rensselaer County Airport in Poestenskill, New York.
Initial Landing
During the landing at Rensselaer County Airport, the aircraft floated off the runway and the wheels contacted the grass. Subsequently, the leading edge of the left outboard wing section was damaged. The aircraft was stopped on the runway with only minor damage, and no injury to the student pilot was reported. The student called the fixed base operator and was instructed to fly the aircraft back to Falls River.
Subsequent Takeoff
During the subsequent takeoff from Rensselaer County Airport, the aircraft went to the left. It reportedly continued to the left as it became airborne, contacted brush and trees, and was substantially damaged.
Conclusion
The aircraft sustained substantial damage after contacting brush and trees during a takeoff from Rensselaer County Airport. The initial landing incident resulted in minor damage to the leading edge of the left outboard wing section.