What happened
On May 22, 2019, a student pilot was conducting a training session at Madrid Cuatro Vientos Airport (LECU) in a CESSNA 172, registration EC-HQU. Following a series of successful takeoffs and landings accompanied by an instructor, the instructor determined the student was prepared for their first solo flight.
After completing the solo circuit and performing a smooth landing on runway 27, the pilot exited the runway via taxiway L3. While attempting to decelerate as the aircraft entered the taxiway, the pilot lost control of the aircraft and struck a signage board. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse and the propeller to strike the ground, leaving the aircraft positioned at a 90-degree angle to the runway axis near the airport perimeter fence. The pilot was uninjured and able to exit the aircraft on their own.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation reviewed flight footage, witness statements from the instructor, and physical evidence at the scene. The examination of the aircraft's damage and the position of the wreckage indicated that the engine was at near-idle power at the time of the impact. The investigation focused on the pilot's actions during the deceleration phase on the taxiway.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the student pilot applied the lower portion of the rudder pedals, which activated the rudder rather than the brakes, failing to stop the aircraft.
- The pilot's lack of experience was a contributing factor.
- A potential sense of relaxation following the high tension of completing a first solo flight in a controlled airport environment may have contributed to the error.