Primary finding
Probable cause
the student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. A factor in the accident was the pilot's lack of total experience.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot reported that he was practicing touch and go landings. He stated that after touching down on the runway, he immediately applied full power, retracted the flaps, and pushed the carburetor heat into the off position. He then glanced down momentarily at the instrument panel to check the airspeed indicator. As he looked up, he realized the airplane had veered to the left. While applying right rudder in an attempt to maintain directional control, the airplane exited the side of the runway and nosed over. No preimpact mechanical anomalies were reported by the pilot.
Source record
Factual narrative
On December 9, 1994, at 1730 central standard time, a Cessna 152, N6445P, registered to North Star Aviation of New Ulm, Minnesota, was substantially damaged while attempting to takeoff on Runway 15 at Mankato Airport, Mankato, Minnesota. The solo student pilot reported no injuries. The 14 CFR Part 91 flight operated in visual meteorological conditions without flight plan. In a written statement, the student pilot reported he was practicing touch and go landings. He stated, after the airplane touched down on the runway, he immediately applied full power, retracted the flaps, and pushed the carburetor heat into the off position. The pilot stated he then glanced down at the instrument panel to check the airspeed indicator. As he looked up, he realized the airplane had veered to the left. While applying right rudder in an attempt to maintain directional control, the airplane exited the side of the runway and nosed over. No preimpact mechanical anomalies were reported by the pilot. -