Accident Overview
A student pilot was on a solo instructional flight and was making his third approach to the runway. During the approach, the airplane adopted a nose-high attitude and the tailskid struck the ground. The student pilot then applied engine power in an attempt to abort the landing. The airplane veered left, and the left wing struck the ground. Witnesses reported that the airplane subsequently cartwheeled and came to rest facing opposite the direction of travel.
Pilot Experience
The student pilot had logged a total of 42 hours of flight experience. He stated that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane.
Relevant Aeronautical Knowledge
According to FAA Advisory Circular AC-61-23C, Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge: "The effect of torque increases in direct proportion to engine power, airspeed, and airplane attitude. If the power setting is high, the airspeed slow, and the angle of attack high, the effect of torque is greater. During takeoffs and climbs, when the effect of torque is most pronounced, the pilot must apply sufficient right rudder pressure to counteract the left-turning tendency and maintain a straight takeoff path."