Synopsis
A glider student pilot, training for a single-engine land rating and endorsed for solo flight, experienced a loss of directional control during landing at Big Lake Airport. The aircraft veered off the runway, resulting in collapse of the nose gear and impact of the left wing with the ground.
Pilot Information
The pilot was a student in training for a single-engine land rating and had been endorsed for solo flight. During her training, she and her instructor had previously landed at Big Lake Airport. The student believed that prior landing constituted approval to land there solo; however, the operator stated that the student was not cleared for solo landings at that airport.
Accident Sequence
During the landing, the student lost directional control of the aircraft. The aircraft subsequently veered off the gravel runway, which contained sandy soft spots. After departing the runway, the nose gear collapsed and the left wing hit the ground.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the nose gear and left wing as a result of the ground impact.