Incident Overview
On 4 September 2021, a student pilot was conducting a cross-country training flight as part of a PPL(A) course. The flight was planned for a minimum distance of 150 NM along the route EPPT-EPRU-EPKA-EPPT. The aircraft, a Cessna 172M with registration SP-FYE, departed EPPT at approximately 07:36 LMT and landed at EPRU at 08:04. After receiving confirmation, the student took off from EPRU at 08:29.
Approach and Touch-and-Go
While approaching the KILO waypoint for EPKA, the student heard other crews discussing deteriorating weather and queried EPKA FIS, who advised that conditions were good but could worsen. The student continued and switched to EPKA Radio, announcing position and intentions. He received traffic information and landing clearance. During a straight-in approach to runway 11R, based on the weather data, the student decided to perform a touch-and-go instead of a full-stop landing.
Occurrence Sequence
After a correct approach, upon main landing gear touchdown, the student immediately pitched the nose up, did not retract flaps, and applied full throttle rapidly. This induced a yaw moment. During the take-off run, the yaw caused the aircraft to veer left, which the student did not effectively counteract. The aircraft departed the runway onto a grass area. The student then braked suddenly, causing the nose landing gear to collapse. The front fuselage contacted the ground, and the tail lifted as the aircraft lost speed, coming to rest on the left wing and then on the main landing gear without overturning. The student exited the cockpit unaided.
Cause and Contributing Factors
The State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation determined the cause of the serious incident was pilot error consisting of incorrect execution of the touch-and-go maneuver. Contributing factors included the student's task-oriented attitude and limited experience.
Preventive and Safety Actions
The investigating entity discussed the event in detail with the student. No additional safety recommendations were formulated by the Commission.