Probable cause
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with runway signs.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot was completing his third solo takeoff of the day. During the takeoff roll, he recognized that the flaps were still fully extended from the previous landing and subsequently moved the flap lever to retract them. The airplane veered left off the runway and struck two runway signs, then continued back onto the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the elevator. The student pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN26LA210 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 29, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Usaf Academy Davis Airfield (AFF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172S
- N-number
- N386SP
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1999
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.