NTSB Factual Report

The student pilot reported that he intended to conduct a solo flight. He utilized the airplane's checklist, started the engine and taxied to the runway uneventfully. While holding short of the runway and completing pretakeoff checklist items, the student pilot was distracted by an airplane approaching to land. The student pilot missed an item on the checklist, which called for locking the cockpit canopy. During the ensuing takeoff roll, the canopy began rattling and flapping open. The student pilot reached behind his head and attempted to secure the canopy. During that time, the airplane veered left off the left side of the runway and the left wing struck a propane tank. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The examination did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane, nor did the student pilot report any.

NTSB Probable Cause

The student pilot's decision to continue the takeoff roll while trying to secure an open canopy and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the student pilot's failure to complete the pretakeoff checklist.