Accident
On 18 September 2008 at 1040 hours UTC, a Cessna 152 (registration G-OFRY) operating a training flight at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon sustained tailplane damage after departing the paved surface. The aircraft, powered by a single Lycoming O-235-L2C piston engine, was being flown by a student pilot with 19 hours total flying experience, including 17 hours on type.
Flight Sequence
The student had completed two circuits and landings with an instructor on Runway 05. The instructor then exited the aircraft, and the student was to fly solo circuits and landings for the remainder of the session. The initial takeoff and circuit were uneventful. However, during the landing, the aircraft touched down to the left of the centreline due to a slight crosswind from the right.
Ground Roll and Excursion
After the landing, the student applied full power while still in the ground roll. As the aircraft accelerated, it began to 'pull' to the left. It departed the paved surface, crossed disused Runway 17/35, and came to rest. The tailplane was damaged during the excursion. No injuries were reported; the crew of one was uninjured.
Examination and Findings
Subsequent examination of the aircraft found no defects with the wheel braking or control systems. The instructor attributed the accident to the student's insufficient use of right rudder to counteract the effects of the crosswind and propeller slipstream.