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Student Pilot's First Solo Flight Ends with Runway Excursion and Nose-Over (N105PD)

Sublette, KS, US

On July 30, 2004, a Cessna 172M (registration N105PD) was involved in an aviation accident near Sublette, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind condition, and her failure to maintain aircraft control during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a student pilot's first solo flight, the airplane departed the runway and nosed over after the pilot was unable to correct a veer to the right following touchdown.

Incident Details

A student pilot experienced a runway excursion and nose-over during her first solo flight. The pilot reported that local winds were from the left at five knots. She flew a left-hand traffic pattern for runway 17. On final approach, she compensated for the crosswind by applying right rudder.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, the airplane touched down a few feet off the runway centerline with a "very slight bounce." Immediately after touchdown, the airplane veered to the right. The pilot stated she was unable to apply left rudder in time to keep the airplane on the runway.

Sequence of Events

The right main landing gear subsequently contacted soft terrain, causing the airplane to nose over. The pilot was the sole occupant and was not reported injured. The aircraft sustained damage from the nose-over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 2004 Cessna 172M accident near Sublette, KS?

During a student pilot's first solo flight, the airplane departed the runway and nosed over after the pilot was unable to correct a veer to the right following touchdown.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 2004 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 2004 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N105PD, at Sublette, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind condition, and her failure to maintain aircraft control during landing. Factors contributing to the accident included the student pilot's unsuccessful recovery from the bounced landings and the soft terrain conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040823X01269. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.