On August 21, 2009, a PIPER PA28 181 operated by Trans Pac Aviation Academy was involved in an aviation accident near Glendale, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot on his first solo flight reported that after touchdown, the airplane veered right. Despite applying left brake, the airplane exited the runway and struck a taxiway sign, resulting in substantial damage. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Event Details
A student pilot was conducting his first solo flight. According to the pilot's report, the airplane touched down on the runway centerline but quickly veered to the right. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied left brake. However, the airplane continued off the runway surface and subsequently collided with a taxiway sign.
Aircraft Damage
The collision with the taxiway sign caused substantial damage to the right wing, fuselage, and stabilator. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the incident.
Contributing factors
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot
What happened in the 21 Aug 2009 PIPER PA28 181 accident near Glendale, AZ?
A student pilot on his first solo flight reported that after touchdown, the airplane veered right. Despite applying left brake, the airplane exited the runway and struck a taxiway sign, resulting in substantial damage. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Aug 2009 PIPER PA28 181 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Aug 2009 involved a PIPER PA28 181, operated by Trans Pac Aviation Academy, at Glendale, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
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