Student Pilot Strikes Pole During Taxi After Full-Stop Landing

Accident Overview

A solo student pilot was practicing touch-and-go takeoffs and landings at an uncontrolled airport. On the third approach, while turning onto final approach, the tower controller instructed the pilot to execute a full-stop landing because of an increased number of aircraft in the airport area.

Landing and Taxi

The landing and rollout were normal. However, when the pilot attempted to turn off the runway onto a taxiway, the aircraft was traveling too fast. The pilot applied the brakes, but the airplane continued off the side of the taxiway and impacted a pole.

Damage and Examination

The collision resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found no anomalies with the airplane that may have contributed to the accident.