What happened
On August 1, 2019, at approximately 20:22 local time, a student pilot was performing a solo flight consisting of landings and takeoffs at Sabadell Airport (LELL), Spain. After successfully completing an initial takeoff and landing with an instructor, the student proceeded to perform the solo portion of the training.
During the second takeoff attempt, the aircraft drifted approximately three meters from the runway centerline. While attempting to correct the deviation by applying full power and using rudder pedals, the pilot applied excessive left pedal pressure. This caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. Realizing control was lost, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff by applying brakes and reducing power. However, the pilot failed to fully retard the throttle, leaving it advanced by approximately 2 to 3 cm.
Due to the remaining engine power, the braking effectiveness was significantly reduced. The TECNAM P2002-JF, registration EC-KAN, exited the left side of the runway, crossed taxiway E3, and traveled approximately 230 meters before coming to a stop between taxiways E3 and N3. The impact caused damage to the nose gear and the propeller.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the pilot's actions, and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation established that the student pilot was performing their first solo flight and had been conducting successful maneuvers earlier in the session. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed the plane was airworthy and had undergone its annual inspection earlier that year. The weather conditions were found to be favorable, with CAVOK conditions and light winds.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll.
- A contributing factor was the pilot's inadvertent failure to fully retard the throttle lever during the aborted takeoff maneuver, which prevented the brakes from effectively stopping the aircraft.
- The pilot applied excessive left rudder pressure while attempting to correct a rightward deviation, leading to the sudden leftward excursion off the runway.
- The student pilot remained uninjured and was able to exit the aircraft on their own.