Accident Summary
A student pilot was on the first leg of his first solo cross-country flight when the airplane impacted terrain in a corn field, approximately 22 miles south of the intended airport. The pilot had previously radioed the control tower, stating he was 10 miles southwest of the airport and requesting a vector. He also reported that the elevator felt mushy, but that it was "no big deal." No further transmissions were received from the pilot.
Flight Information
According to radar data, the airplane's last 28 minutes and 11 seconds of flight consisted of numerous turns and significant changes in direction. The pilot's logbook indicated he had over 27 hours of total flight experience, which included 1 hour of solo flight experience. The last logbook entry was made 1 month before the accident, when the pilot logged 0.3 hour of dual instruction. Additionally, he logged 0.6 hour of solo flight experience 2 months prior to the accident.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage did not disclose any anomalies with the airplane or the engine. No mechanical or structural issues were identified that could have contributed to the accident.