Student Pilot's First Solo Ends with Runway Sign Collision and Drainage Ditch Incident (N3318E)

Flight Sequence

The accident occurred during the student pilot's first supervised solo flight. After making his second landing and during the landing roll, the airplane began to veer to the left. An attempt to correct the veer back to the right was unsuccessful. The airplane continued to the left and impacted a runway sign.

Incident Details

Following the impact with the runway sign, the airplane continued northwest-bound before impacting a drainage ditch approximately 250 feet from the edge of the runway. The aircraft subsequently turned eastbound and crossed the drainage ditch a second time. This second crossing resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear.

Damage

The airplane came to rest in an upright position with its tail section in the drainage ditch and its right wing tip laying on the ground. The airplane's right wing sustained substantial damage.