Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to raise the flaps prior to takeoff, and subsequent loss of directional control. A lack of total experience was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot was practicing landings on his second solo flight. His intention was to make three full stop landings, taxiing back for each takeoff. During preparation for the third solo takeoff the pilot did not raise the flaps. During the takeoff the airplane drifted to the left hit a runway sign and continued into the grassy area beside the runway where the wing was damaged.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 13, 1994, at 1316 Pacific daylight time, a Beech BE-77, N6702Y, collided with a runway sign following a loss of control while taking off on runway 31 at Salinas Airport, Salinas, California. The student pilot, performing supervised solo pattern work, was not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The pilot reported that he forgot to raise the flaps prior to takeoff. He was not able to keep the airplane on the centerline and drifted to the left. The left wing struck the runway length distance marker. He then proceeded across the grass to the taxiway. The student's flight instructor provided in a written statement that he observed "one of the wings high" while watching the student's takeoff roll. -