NTSB Factual Report

Following two successful stop and go landings in the tailwheel equipped airplane, the student pilot departed for his third solo flight around the airport’s traffic pattern. While on final approach the student’s flight instructor observed from the ground, that it appeared the airplane was high and slow and requested via the aircraft radio that the student execute a go-around. The student pilot complied and while on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, the flight instructor instructed the student to make a full stop landing. During the landing roll, the student pilot retracted the wing flaps and added engine power as if to takeoff. The flight instructor reminded the student that this was to be a full stop landing. The student pilot reduced engine power; however, he also released back pressure on the control stick. As the rudder lost its effectiveness, the student pilot lost directional control and the airplane exited the side of the runway. The airplane impacted a ditch and nosed over, resulting in structural damage to both wings. An examination of the airplane following the accident, revealed no pre-impact anomalies with the airplane’s flight control system.

NTSB Probable Cause

The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the tailwheel-equipped airplane during the landing roll.