Incident Overview
On 26 August 2019, at approximately 17:40 UTC, a Cessna 152 aircraft, registration LV-AMI, operated by Flight Center (a Type III Civil Aviation Training Center based at Morón Airport), experienced a runway excursion during landing. The aircraft was on a local training flight with a student pilot conducting his first solo flight.
Sequence of Events
The student pilot had previously completed a check flight with an instructor, performing four landings with different flap configurations. Based on satisfactory performance, the instructor authorized the first solo flight, following the requirements of RAAC Part 61. The instructor monitored the flight from the apron via radio.
The approach to Runway 20 at Morón Airport was uneventful. However, during the landing flare, the aircraft contacted the runway abnormally, resulting in a series of three bounces. After the initial touchdown, the student lost directional control, and the aircraft veered left, departing the runway surface. It traveled approximately 200 meters over the grass before coming to a stop. The student then exited the aircraft while the engine was still running.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found no anomalies in the aircraft's systems or controls. It determined that the flare was likely executed at an excessive height, and the student did not perform a go-around or recovery maneuver. The three bounces led to a loss of control and subsequent runway excursion.
Conclusions
The incident was attributed to an abnormal contact with the terrain during landing, resulting in loss of control and runway excursion. Factors included the flare performed at excessive height and the absence of a go-around or recovery maneuver. The student was on his first solo flight, and the authorization complied with applicable regulations.