Accident Details
A student pilot was conducting a solo flight. The pilot used the aircraft's checklist, started the engine, and taxied to the runway without incident. While holding short of the runway and completing pretakeoff checklist items, the student pilot was distracted by an airplane approaching to land. This distraction caused the pilot to miss an item on the checklist that required locking the cockpit canopy.
Sequence of Events
During the ensuing takeoff roll, the canopy began rattling and flapping open. The student pilot reached behind his head in an attempt to secure the canopy. While doing so, the airplane veered left off the left side of the runway. The left wing subsequently struck a propane tank.
Damage and Findings
Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The examination did not identify any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane, and the student pilot did not report any such issues.