Incident Overview
A student pilot conducting a solo cross-country flight entered the downwind leg of the traffic pattern for landing on Runway 20. After turning onto the final leg, the pilot established the airplane on a stabilized approach. Moments before touchdown, the pilot reported losing consciousness. He regained awareness upon impact with the ground.
Events After Loss of Consciousness
The airplane banked to the right, cleared a fence, then struck a power line and a trailer before coming to rest. A firefighter who witnessed the incident and assisted the pilot stated that the pilot's first words were that he had 'blacked out.'
Medical and Mechanical Factors
The student pilot was hospitalized for two days for tests. He reported no pre-existing medical conditions and was not taking any medication that could explain the loss of consciousness. An examination of the airplane's engine exhaust system revealed no leaks or mechanical faults. The pilot stated there were no mechanical deficiencies with the aircraft.