Incident Details
A student pilot conducting a local solo instructional flight attempted to land at an airport. During the third approach, the aircraft touched down approximately halfway down the runway at a speed described as "a little fast." The pilot then initiated a go-around by adding power, but subsequently reduced the power to idle, intending to continue the landing. Shortly after, the pilot changed course again and elected to abort the landing, reapplying power for a go-around.
Nosewheel Vibration and Decision
Immediately after the final power application, the nosewheel began to shake violently. The pilot decided to discontinue the landing again and stop the aircraft to examine the nosewheel. However, insufficient runway length remained to bring the aircraft to a halt.
Runway Excursion
The aircraft skidded off the departure end of the runway, traveled down an embankment, and sustained damage. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft was not destroyed.
Investigation Findings
The investigation did not specify a probable cause for the incident. The sequence of events involved the pilot's indecision regarding the landing attempt, the fast touchdown, the nosewheel shimmy, and the ultimate runway excursion.