What happened
The pilot was conducting touch-and-go landings on runway 17R, which measures 10,001 feet in length with asphalt pavement. Wind conditions were calm at the time of the operations. After each landing, the pilot applied the brakes to slow the aircraft.
During one such sequence, the airplane veered toward the right side of the runway. The pilot attributed this deviation to either uneven brake application, a wind gust, or a combination of both factors. In an effort to regain control while departing the paved surface, the pilot applied power.
The aircraft then struck a runway light fixture. This impact severed the nose landing gear. Following the collision, the airplane descended an embankment and came to rest on uneven terrain.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the departure from the runway. They noted that the pilot had applied power in an attempt to recover control after the initial veer. The mechanical failure of the nose landing gear was a direct result of striking the fixed light structure.
Findings
The primary factors leading to the accident included the deviation to the right side of the runway during braking. Contributing elements were likely uneven brake application and potential wind gusts, though the exact cause of the veer remained uncertain based on available data. The subsequent damage to the nose landing gear was caused by the impact with the runway light.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware that uneven brake application or sudden wind changes can cause directional control issues during high-speed ground operations. Immediate corrective action is critical when deviating from the runway centerline.