What happened
On May 31, 2018, a student pilot was conducting training maneuvers at Mollis Airfield (LSMF) in preparation for their first solo flight. After completing several successful circuits with an instructor, the student performed a solo circuit and subsequent touch-and-go landings. During the third touch-and-go attempt, shortly after applying power, the Remos GX, registered HB-WYD, drifted left from the runway centerline toward the left edge of the runway.
Realizing that the aircraft was about to veer off the paved surface, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff by applying the wheel brakes. This sudden braking caused the aircraft to tilt forward and to the right, leading the propeller and the right wingtip spar to make contact with the ground. The momentum caused the aircraft to nose over and come to rest upside down. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft uninjured, though the aircraft sustained heavy damage to its engine, propeller, airframe, and nose gear.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The weather was reported as clear with light winds from the south, measured at approximately 4 to 6 knots. The investigation focused on the mechanical functionality of the braking and steering systems. It was noted that the wheel brakes on this model are operated via a single hand lever, which prevents directional control through differential braking. Additionally, the nose gear steering is linked to the rudder pedals.
Findings
There were no evidence of technical malfunctions that contributed to the accident. The investigation concluded that the student pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the touch-and-go maneuver. While the pilot's decision to abort the takeoff was considered a safety-conscious action, the subsequent application of the brakes prevented the recovery of control, leading to the aircraft's inversion.