A C172 pilot and his instrument instructor pilot reported an engine cowling panel coming open at 50 FT after takeoff and landing the aircraft on the remaining runway but slightly overrunning the end.
Synopsis
A C172 pilot and his instrument instructor pilot reported an engine cowling panel coming open at 50 FT after takeoff and landing the aircraft on the remaining runway but slightly overrunning the end.
Narrative
This was a instrument training flight with my student. After pre-flighting the aircraft; we briefly discussed the plan of action for days training exercise. We got into the airplane; started the engine; obtained the ATIS; and called ground for the initial taxi instructions. We were told to taxi to the 'triangle' for the run-up. After the run-up; we were told to contact tower. Tower cleared us for take off 17R from intersection 'E.' Upon taking the runway; my student added full power and began rolling down the runway. We rotated the airplane at the appropriate speed and began to climb. At approximately 50 feet AGL; an access panel on the nose cowl came open. My student immediately pulled the power to idle to land the aircraft on the remaining runway. I; as the instructor; would have done the same and had no problem with how my student was handling the situation. We landed the airplane back on the runway and immediately applied max braking; trying to keep in mind to not lock the brakes. It was soon very obvious that we did not have enough runway remaining; and we were going to go off the end of the runway. My student maneuvered the aircraft to stay clear of all runway lights and signs. We were able to bring the airplane back onto the taxiway and took the airplane back to parking. I remember saying to my student; 'Power to idle!' just before we landed. He replied 'it is!' We inspected the aircraft for damage and did not immediately see any damage. After the incident; I went back to inspect for damaged signs or lights and did not see any.
Second reporter narrative
Upon rotation oil/battery inspection panel opens and flaps/twists violently. At 50 FT with sufficient runway pilot declares 'abort' and lands. Pilot and Instructor BOTH stand on original -recently inspected Cessna brakes to no effect. Brakes immediately heat and fade. Aircraft finally overruns south end of runway at perhaps 20 MPH into wet high grass perhaps 50 FT distance; turn left and taxi back to taxiway and return to hangar. No objects; signs; lights struck by the aircraft which abruptly at end of runway upon entry to grass but did not stop and the propeller did not slow or stop. No damage to airframe but possible/probable propeller strike being investigated.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.