Incident Overview
A solo student pilot was conducting a practice soft field touch and go landing when the aircraft veered to the left, departed the paved runway surface, and struck an airfield sign. The student reported that earlier on the day of the accident, he had completed three soft field practice takeoffs and landings in the same aircraft, totaling 15 to 20 landings overall, before his flight instructor cleared him to perform the maneuver solo.
Pilot Comments
The student pilot stated he was uncomfortable performing the maneuver due to the airplane's high engine power and its tendency to pull hard to the left during the operation. Weather conditions at the time were clear with winds from 230 degrees at 4 knots.
Aircraft Damage
An examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the right aileron. The student pilot noted that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane prior to the accident.