What happened
On March 23, 2023, a student pilot was conducting a training session at Mnichovo Hradiště Airport (LKMH). After completing several supervised landings with a flight instructor, the pilot was cleared to perform a series of solo touch-and-go landings.
During the second solo attempt on runway 24, the pilot successfully touched down and configured the Cessna 172SP for takeoff by setting 10 degrees of flaps and applying full power. As the engine power increased, the aircraft experienced a slight tendency to veer to the right. In an attempt to correct this, the pilot applied an excessive left rudder input. This sudden movement caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left, leading to a loss of directional control on the ground.
The aircraft exited the runway and entered the adjacent grass area at a speed of approximately 35-40 knots. The pilot failed to apply brakes or reduce power immediately, experiencing a period of cognitive freezing due to the unexpected nature of the event. The aircraft eventually struck the airport's perimeter fencing. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse, the propeller to strike the ground, and significant structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and tail section. No injuries were reported.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator's safety management system, examined the pilot's training records, maintenance logs, and video evidence of the event. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's airworthiness, confirming that the Cessna 172SP, registration OK-CAP, was properly maintained and within all weight and balance limits. The investigation also analyzed the meteorological conditions, which were clear (CAVOK) with no wind, and the operational status of the runway, which was found to be in good condition.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was improper piloting technique by the student pilot, specifically an inadequate response to the aircraft's rightward deviation during the takeoff roll.
- The pilot's excessive left rudder input directly caused the aircraft to lose control on the ground (LOC-G).
- A secondary factor was the pilot's delayed reaction to the excursion, characterized by a failure to apply brakes or reduce power in a timely manner.
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage, including a broken wing spar and engine compartment damage, making the cost of repair economically unfeasible.