NTSB Factual Report

On August 07, 2003, about 1125 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172S, N775SP, registered to Scharf Aviation Inc., and operated by Air Orlando Flight School, ran off the side runway 25 during takeoff roll at Orlando Executive Airport, Orlando, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed. The instructional flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The airplane incurred substantial damage and the student pilot was not injured. The flight originated from Orlando, Florida, the same day, about 1100..

The student pilot stated that he was on his second touch-and-go of his first solo flight, when he added power and was rolling down the runway. He noted the airplane was headed toward the left edge of the runway and applied right rudder to compensate; the airplane did not respond to the input. He reduced engine power, however, the airplane skidded off the runway on to the grass for about 45 feet before coming to a full stop.

The student's flight instructor stated that he observed the student perform the first touch-and-go well and without incident. He mentioned on the second landing, shortly after the airplane touched down, the aircraft rolled on the runway for a few seconds then turned into the grass and then the nose gear of the airplane collapsed.

A mechanic performed a visual inspection of the airplane and rudder system after the accident and stated he could not find any obstructions in the rudder system that would have attributed to the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The failure of the student pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff roll resulting in the aircraft departing the runway and incurring substantial damage.