Pilot Debrief

DIAMOND AIRCRAFT IND INC DA 40 near La Verne, CA — 2015-01-27

Final reportWPR15CA094
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Date
2015-01-27
Location
La Verne, CA, USA
Airport
POC
Aircraft
DIAMOND AIRCRAFT IND INC DA 40
Registration
N805ER
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The student pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff from a runway, which resulted in a collision with a sign.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot reported that the purpose of the solo flight was for him to practice soft-field takeoffs from a hard surface runway. During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a sudden gust of wind and the student pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane veered to the left of the runway centerline and continued off the surface, colliding with several signs before coming to rest in a grassy area. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The student pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The student pilot further reported that the accident could have been prevented if he was more vigilant of sudden gusts of wind even in reported calm wind conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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