Casualties unknown

1991-01-20: Cessna 152 (N94647) — Gibson Avaition — Eau Claire, WI

Eau Claire, WI, US

On January 20, 1991, a Cessna 152 (registration N94647) operated by Gibson Avaition was involved in an aviation accident near Eau Claire, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on his fifth solo takeoff roll experienced a left turn, applied left aileron and right rudder, but collided with a snowbank, causing the aircraft to nose over and sustain damage.

Event Details

A student pilot who had received a solo endorsement after completing six crosswind touch-and-go takeoffs and landings with an instructor was conducting solo touch-and-go exercises. After finishing four solo touch-and-go takeoffs and landings, the student initiated a fifth takeoff roll.

Sequence of Events

During the takeoff roll, the airplane began turning to the left. The student pilot responded by applying full left aileron, noting a left crosswind, and also applied right rudder. Despite these inputs, the airplane continued turning left. It subsequently collided with a shallow snowbank that ran parallel to the runway edge. After traveling approximately 8 feet through the snow area, the airplane nosed over.

Damage

The collision with the shallow snowbank resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and damage to the right wing. The extent of other damage was not reported.

Conclusion

The student pilot had performed multiple crosswind landings with an instructor and solo before the incident. The specific reasons for the continued left turn were not stated in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.