Incident Overview
A student pilot, flying solo after a certified flight instructor (CFI) deplaned, executed a touch-and-go landing at Opa-Locka West Airport in Florida. The flight had initially originated from North Perry Airport in Hollywood, Florida, with both the student and CFI onboard. After arriving at Opa-Locka West, the student performed several touch-and-go landings under supervision before the CFI exited the aircraft, allowing the student to continue solo in the traffic pattern.
Pilot Report
According to the student pilot's account, after touchdown he allowed the airplane to roll before adding power. As he "slowly" advanced the throttle, the airplane began to drift left. Despite applying right rudder input, the leftward movement continued. Recognizing that the airplane was departing the runway, the student reduced power, but the aircraft traveled into a ditch adjacent to the runway and nosed over.
Witness Account
The CFI, who had remained at the airport and witnessed the accident, provided a different observation. She reported that the student landed the airplane on the runway centerline and "greased it on." Subsequently, she noted the airplane drifted left onto the grass, entered a ditch, and nosed over.
Examination Findings
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the airplane after the incident. The inspection revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction.
Sequence of Events
- The flight departed North Perry Airport with a student and CFI.
- At Opa-Locka West Airport, the student performed touch-and-go landings with the CFI.
- The CFI deplaned, and the student continued solo in the traffic pattern.
- During a touch-and-go, the airplane drifted left after power application.
- Despite right rudder input, the airplane left the runway, entered a ditch, and nosed over.
- The CFI witnessed the event, noting a smooth landing followed by a left drift.
- Post-accident inspection showed no mechanical failures.