Student Pilot's Solo Flight Ends with Snowbank Collision

Incident Details

A student pilot was conducting a solo flight. On final approach, the pilot believed the airplane was on glidepath but later realized it was too low. The right main landing gear contacted a snowbank at the end of the runway, bending the gear aft. After touchdown, the airplane veered to the right and struck another snowbank.

Aircraft Damage

A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the firewall. The landing gear was bent, and the airplane sustained structural harm.

Pilot Report

The student pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.