Incident Overview
According to the pilot's account, the approach was an extended final for landing. As the aircraft neared the runway, the pilot observed that it was positioned to the right of the centerline and made corrections to align with the runway for landing. The pilot noted that corrections were still being made when the flare was initiated. The flare was executed at an altitude higher than intended, causing the airplane to develop a sink rate greater than desired. The pilot responded by adding power.
Touchdown and Bounce
The landing was described as firmer than normal, resulting in the airplane bouncing before settling back onto the runway. After the bounce, the pilot looked inside the cockpit to retract the flaps and reduce engine power to idle. When the pilot redirected attention outside, the airplane was pointed away from the runway.
Runway Excursion
To correct the heading, the pilot applied right rudder. Concerned about overcorrecting and losing control, the pilot was cautious with rudder input. When attempting to apply the brakes, the pilot found that the feet were positioned too far forward on the rudder pedals, preventing brake application. The airplane departed the runway surface and traveled onto the grass toward a ditch. While crossing the ditch, the nose landing gear collapsed, the propeller struck the ground, and the airplane came to rest inverted.
Damage and Mechanical Status
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot's Recommendation
In the accident report's recommendation section, the pilot stated that the flight school had changed its policy and no longer permits solo students to fly to the accident airport. The pilot further noted that if positive aircraft control had been ensured before retracting the flaps or diverting attention from the landing, the airplane would not have yawed toward the side of the runway.