Student Pilot Experiences Crosswind During Solo Landing

Accident Details

A student pilot was conducting his initial solo flight, performing full stop landings within the traffic pattern. The accident occurred during the sixth landing of the flight. According to the pilot, the wind shifted from a right quartering headwind to a direct left crosswind of approximately 8 knots. While landing, the airplane banked to the right and departed the right side of the runway, subsequently encountering a ditch adjacent to the runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

Pilot Comments

The pilot commented that he might have used the wrong rudder pedal in his attempt to maintain directional control. He stated that there were no failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane prior to the accident.

Weather Information

The local wind condition was recorded at 6 knots or less during the 2-hour period surrounding the time of the accident.