Accident Overview
A student pilot, operating solo, encountered a runway excursion during the landing roll after completing a third approach. According to the pilot's account, the aircraft veered to the right and departed the runway surface. It subsequently collided with a 5-foot-deep ditch located approximately 38 feet from the runway edge, then continued into a 10-foot-deep ditch about 59 feet from the runway, where it came to rest.
Flight Details
The pilot indicated that the accident occurred during a solo flight. He reported using a higher-than-normal approach speed to compensate for turbulent conditions in the vicinity of the runway threshold. No mechanical failures or malfunctions were identified prior to the event.
Pilot Statement
The student pilot stated that after the third approach, the aircraft began to veer right during the landing roll. Despite his attempt to correct the deviation, the aircraft exited the runway and struck the ditches. He further noted that the aircraft had no pre-existing mechanical issues.
Weather Conditions
At the Sacramento Metro Airport, located approximately 26 nautical miles northeast of the accident site, the reported wind was from 230 degrees at 5 knots.