No fatalities

19 Jul 2019: Cessna 172 R — Flights - Inc — Denver, CO

Denver, CO, United States
SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During a private pilot check ride, a student pilot executing a soft field takeover lost control after applying excessive back pressure, causing the aircraft to pop up, bank left, and strike the runway, resulting in substantial damage.

Accident Overview

A student pilot undergoing a private pilot check ride experienced a loss of control during a soft field takeoff maneuver. The aircraft exited the runway to the left into the grass, and the nose and right landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount.

Sequence of Events

The student pilot reported that during the soft field takeoff, he applied back pressure and anticipated that the airplane would become airborne. He did not feel the airplane "come up" and consequently applied more back pressure. The airplane then "popped up," banked to the left, and struck the runway before veering off the left side of the runway into the grass.

Post-Accident Information

The student pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. No other information regarding the aircraft, pilot, or environmental conditions was provided in the source.

Contributing factors

Lateral/bank control — Not attained/maintainedStudent/instructed pilot