Primary finding
Probable cause
The improper supervision of the instructor pilot. A factor was the loss of directional control by the student pilot.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During a touch and go landing on an instructional flight, the aircraft began to drift to the left off the runway following touchdown. The instructor pilot stated that he attempted to assume control of the aircraft, but 'was unable to correct the condition prior to striking an embankment.'
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 18, 1994, at 1130 mountain standard time, a Cessna 172L, N7876G, was substantially damaged during landing at Buena Vista Municipal Airport in Buena Vista, Colorado. The certified flight instructor and student pilot were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the instructional flight. In the Pilot/Operator report, the instructor pilot stated that the aircraft began to drift to the left off the runway during a touch and go landing. He further stated that the aircraft "ran off the runway, at which time I attempted to maneuver us back onto the runway." He added that he was "unable to correct the condition prior to striking an embankment." An examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical difficulties. -