What happened
On 11 April 2004, a Cessna 172 R, registration EI-MCF, was conducting solo training maneuvers at Galway Airport. After successfully completing an initial instructor-led flight and two solo circuits, the student pilot attempted a third "touch and go" maneuver.
During this third circuit, the aircraft landed accurately on the centerline within the touchdown zone. However, as the pilot deployed flaps and increased engine power, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the runway. The aircraft exited the paved surface abeam the control tower and traveled across the grass area. The excursion ended when the aircraft struck the airfield's boundary barbed wire fence at approximately 13:40 hrs. The impact caused minor damage to several components, including the engine cowling, propeller, spinner, nose wheel oleo strut, wing strut, and elevator.
The investigation
The AAIU investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the environmental circumstances of the flight. Investigators confirmed that wind conditions were calm at the time of the incident. A post-incident inspection of EI-MCF revealed that the nose wheel steering and both wheel brakes were fully operational and had no mechanical defects. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's account, noting that while the pilot attempted to use the rudder and brakes to correct the veer, the aircraft could not be brought back to the centerline.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was insufficient rudder application to counteract the natural leftward yawing tendency produced by the propeller's torque and slipstream effects during power application.
- The lack of wind meant there was no crosswind component to assist in maintaining directional stability.
- There were no mechanical failures identified in the steering or braking systems that contributed to the loss of control.