Incident Description
A student pilot, receiving instruction, was performing a landing in windy conditions. The airplane drifted to the left of the runway centerline. The pilot applied right rudder and aileron to correct the drift. However, when it became apparent that the aircraft would continue to drift left of the runway, the pilot initiated a go-around.
The flight instructor reported that the airplane touched down momentarily and that he heard a "thump." The pilot then added power, made several corrections to maintain runway heading, and established a climb. The instructor informed the tower controller that the airplane may have struck a runway edge light. The pilot subsequently landed the airplane and taxied to the ramp without further incident.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident examination revealed white paint transfer marks on the runway leading to a runway light. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both the left and right ailerons. Airport personnel informed the pilot that a runway light was damaged and would need replacement.
The chief pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
The flight instructor reported that the wind was from 350° at 12 knots, gusting to 19 knots. The airport's automated weather observation station recorded, about three minutes before the accident, wind from 340° at 13 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 30.