Probable cause
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot reported that, during takeoff, as he applied full power, the airplane veered to the left. He attempted to recover, but the airplane exited the left side of the runway and came to rest in a ditch.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The student pilot 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 GAA18CA142 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 25, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Apopka, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Orlando Apopka (X04)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecna ASTORE
- N-number
- N194CT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2015
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.