What happened
On August 2, 2018, a Tecnam P2008 was conducting circuit training at Wrocław-Szymanów Airport (EPWS) as part of a PPL(A) training program. Following several successful solo circuits using runway 14, the wind direction shifted to a crosswind/tailwind component, prompting the operator to switch operations to runway 32.
Upon completing the third solo circuit and initiating the takeoff roll for the subsequent circuit, the aircraft began to veer to the left. Despite radio instructions from an instructor positioned near the runway, the pilot was unable to correct the deviation. The aircraft continued to bank toward the left wing, eventually exiting the grass runway area. During the excursion, the nose gear strut failed, and the propeller sustained damage as the aircraft came to a stop resting on its engine cowling.
The student pilot was uninjured and exited the aircraft unaided. Post-incident testing confirmed a blood alcohol content of 0.00 mg/L, and no irregularities were found in the pilot's documentation.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the aircraft operator, examined the flight sequence, the change in runway operations due to wind, and the pilot's response to the engine power application. The investigation also reviewed the instructor's attempts to provide guidance via radio during the event.