NTSB Factual Report

On August 30, 2003, at 1030 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-38-112, N2318L, veered off the runway during takeoff from Hi Desert Airport (L80), Joshua Tree, California, and collided with a berm. The airplane, registered and owned by a private individual, was being operated under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The student pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.

In a written statement, the student pilot reported that he was on his first solo flight. After flying with his certified flight instructor (CFI) for 3 hours, he attempted solo pattern work. A full takeoff and landing sequence was completed successfully. During his second takeoff, he reached rotation speed, "looked up," and became aware that he had drifted off centerline. In efforts to avoid overcorrecting, he made small adjustments and felt that he could rotate the airplane due to the high airspeed. With the airplane completely off the runway, he pulled back on the yoke. The airplane's left wheel collided with terrain and the airplane cartwheeled at full speed. It then nosed over and came to rest inverted.

The student's CFI was interviewed via telephone. During the takeoff roll, the student drifted left of the runway centerline. No indication of a power reduction was observed. The airplane continued off the runway and encountered a berm, which launched it airborne. The airplane stalled about 10 feet above ground level (agl). The nose collided with the ground, the engine detached, and the airplane came to rest inverted.

NTSB Probable Cause

the student pilot failed to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll.