On 4 Jun 2017, a CESSNA 150 H was involved in an aviation accident near Newburyport, MA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's decision to attempt to close the cockpit window during takeoff and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A solo student pilot veered off the runway during takeoff after the pilot's side window blew open, causing the airplane to enter a wooded area and sustain substantial wing damage.
Event Details
During the takeoff roll, as full power was applied, the pilot's side window blew open. The solo student pilot then reached over with his right hand to close the window. As he did so, the airplane veered off the runway to the left into a wooded area and impacted terrain.
Pilot's Comments
The student pilot reported that on previous flights he had noticed the window latch was loose and had planned to have it fixed, but had not done so. He also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage Assessment
Both wings sustained substantial damage.
Contributing factors
Student/instructed pilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot