Introduction
On 16 January 2003, a Reims Cessna F172M Skyhawk, registration G-BAZT, was involved in a runway excursion at Exeter Airport during a solo training flight. The student pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft sustained a bent propeller.
Flight Details
The aircraft, a single-engine trainer manufactured in 1973, was being operated by a student pilot with 24 hours of total flying experience, all on type. The pilot had completed a solo navigation exercise and was returning to Exeter Airport, his point of departure.
Accident Sequence
The approach to Runway 26 and the subsequent touchdown were reported as normal by the pilot and witnessed by air traffic control. Seconds later, during the landing roll, the aircraft suddenly veered to the left and departed the side of the runway. It crossed an adjacent grass area and continued forward until the nose wheel sank into mud, causing the propeller to strike the ground and the engine to stall.
Investigation
At the time of the incident, the runway was dry with a light surface wind producing only a slight crosswind. A subsequent engineering inspection of the aircraft found no faults that could have contributed to the event.
Pilot's Statement
The pilot stated that he typically flies with his feet covering the brake portion of the rudder pedals. He noted that while using the rudder to keep the aircraft straight on the runway, it was possible he inadvertently applied the left brake. Once the aircraft veered left, he was concerned that applying too much opposite control might cause a ground loop, so he decided it was safer to continue onto the grass. The pilot recognized the grass area was muddy and chose not to use the brakes to avoid the nose wheel 'digging-in' and potentially causing the aircraft to turn over. However, before the aircraft stopped, the nose wheel sank into a soft spot, resulting in the propeller strike.