What happened
The aircraft collided with a snow bank during the landing phase and subsequently nosed down. This event occurred during the student pilot's first solo landing attempt. The student reported that they believed the landing was successful, except for an uncommanded leftward drift that persisted despite the application of right rudder. At the time of impact, some engine power remained active.
The flight instructor observed the sequence differently, noting that the aircraft touched down with the nose low and subsequently skipped back into the air. The aircraft departed the runway during this second touchdown event. Prior to this flight, the student pilot had accumulated 10 hours of dual instruction time and completed 27 landings. Due to being deaf-mute, the tower utilized light signals to provide landing clearance.
Findings
- First solo landing
- Deaf-mute pilot
- Snow bank impact
- Nose-down attitude