On December 30, 2018, a Cessna 172 R operated by Air Fleet Training Systems Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Caldwell, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot, after completing two landings with an instructor, attempted a solo takeoff. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, struck a berm, and the nose landing gear collapsed, causing substantial fuselage damage.
Incident Overview
According to the chief pilot of the flight school, a student pilot had completed two landings with a flight instructor. The instructor then exited the airplane, and the student performed a solo flight around the traffic pattern. After a full stop landing, the student added full power for another takeoff.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the airplane veered to the left. The student applied rudder inputs in an attempt to correct the deviation. Despite these efforts, the airplane departed the runway, struck a berm, and the nose landing gear collapsed. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Mechanical Assessment
The chief pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Dec 2018 Cessna 172 R accident near Caldwell, NJ?
A student pilot, after completing two landings with an instructor, attempted a solo takeoff. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, struck a berm, and the nose landing gear collapsed, causing substantial fuselage damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Dec 2018 Cessna 172 R accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Dec 2018 involved a Cessna 172 R, operated by Air Fleet Training Systems Inc., at Caldwell, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.