Probable cause
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that, during the student pilot's solo flight in the traffic pattern, after completing a series of takeoffs and landings, the student decided to practice a soft-field takeoff. During the takeoff, the student applied back pressure and full throttle; however, he did not add sufficient right rudder. Subsequently, the airplane veered off the runway to the left, struck the precision approach path indicator lights, and then came to rest.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and engine mount.
The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA076 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 30, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fullerton, California
- Nearest airport
- Fullerton Muni (FUL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 152
- N-number
- N417CB
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- 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.