Incident Overview
A student pilot flying an amateur-built SeaWing weight-shift control aircraft was injured after the aircraft collided with trees during a go-around. The accident occurred on the pilot's first day of solo flight training. The pilot had previously completed several solo takeoffs and landings before the incident.
Flight and Maneuvers
After winds increased, the pilot elected to switch to a different field. While on short final approach, the aircraft drifted toward trees to the right of the intended path. The pilot initiated a go-around and applied control inputs intended to correct the flight path to the left. However, these inputs caused the aircraft to turn right, leading to a collision with the trees.
Pilot Background
The pilot held approximately 700 hours of flight experience in airplanes and was in the process of learning to fly the weight-shift aircraft. The pitch and directional control inputs for this type of aircraft are opposite to those required for a conventional airplane. Both the flight instructor and the student were aware of this difference and the potential for confusion, but no incorrect inputs had been observed on previous flights.
Statement from Pilot
The pilot stated that during the accident approach, he reverted to his original training, which was correct for a conventional airplane but incorrect for the weight-shift aircraft.
Damage and Injuries
The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained serious injuries.