What happened
The incident occurred while a student pilot was conducting flight training maneuvers. The specific objective of the flight was to practice a soft field takeoff procedure. During the execution of this maneuver, the aircraft departed from the intended flight path. Directional control was lost during the takeoff roll.
Following the loss of control, the aircraft traveled approximately 100 feet to the left of the runway centerline. Upon leaving the paved surface, the right wing struck the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to cartwheel, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.
The investigation
Post-incident interviews with the pilot provided context regarding the training circumstances. The student pilot reported that he had previously received specific instruction from his flight instructor. This instruction advised against practicing soft field operations during solo flights. The pilot acknowledged this guidance but was engaged in a dual-instruction session at the time of the accident.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the event was the loss of directional control during the takeoff phase. The maneuver required precise rudder and throttle coordination, which was not maintained effectively. The deviation from the runway centerline led directly to the ground impact and subsequent cartwheeling motion.