What happened
On June 4, 2002, a Cessna 152, registration ZS-MPG, was involved in a runway excursion during a solo training flight at Virginia Airport. The flight, operated by a student pilot with 22 total flying hours, was intended to be a short circuit between Virginia and back to Virginia.
Following a successful landing on the centerline of Runway 2XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX23, the pilot initiated a takeoff roll by applying full power and retracting the flaps. During this acceleration phase, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the runway. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying full right rudder, but the aircraft could not be stabilized. In an effort to stop the excursion, the pilot reduced the throttle and applied the brakes, but the momentum caused the left wing to strike bushes located adjacent to the runway.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The Cessna 152 had been maintained according to prescribed intervals, with the next maintenance inspection not due until March 2003. The aircraft had flown 93 hours since its last inspection.
At the time of the incident, meteorological conditions were favorable, characterized by fine weather and a light southwesterly wind of 5 to 8 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical defects or abnormalities prior to the takeoff attempt. The flight school involved held valid accreditation for aviation training at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the wing tips and the right-hand aileron.
- There were no injuries to the pilot.
- The primary factor in the excursion was the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.