Student Pilot Loses Directional Control During Go-Around, Hits Signs (N73859)

Accident Details

A student pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings in calm wind conditions. During the second landing, the pilot advanced the throttle to initiate a go-around and began retracting the flaps. The airplane then veered left of the runway centerline. The pilot reported that the airplane exhibited a stronger left turning tendency than expected, and he attempted to correct the deviation with right rudder input. However, the airplane departed the runway surface, struck two signs, and came to a stop.

Pilot Actions

The student pilot stated that he applied the brakes during the accident sequence but did not remember retarding the throttle. The airplane continued until it struck the signs and stopped.

Sequence of Events

• The pilot was performing touch-and-go landings.
• On the second landing, he advanced the throttle for a go-around.
• He began retracting the flaps, at which point the airplane veered left of centerline.
• Despite rudder input, the airplane left the runway and struck two signs.
• The airplane stopped after impacting the signs.