What happened
On August 17, 2009, a pilot was participating in a 100 km gliding competition. During the flight, the pilot successfully reached the first turning point but encountered weak thermal lift, averaging only 1-2 m/s. Upon reaching the second turning point at an altitude of approximately 500 meters, the pilot found that the deteriorating thermal conditions made it impossible to continue the competition course.
Seeking a landing site, the pilot evaluated several fields, most of which were positioned crosswind. At an altitude of just over 300 meters, the pilot selected a 200 x 200 meter stubble field located in the wind axis. The field was characterized by windrows, and the pilot intended to land parallel to them. After performing a reconnaissance pass, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn and initiated a steep approach. The approach speed was maintained between 100 and 110 km/h.
The SZD-51-1 Junior touched down halfway through the selected field. The aircraft failed to stop within the boundaries of the field and rolled across a dirt track separating adjacent plots. Upon hitting ruts in the track, the fuselage structure sustained damage. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation focused on the flight parameters during the final approach and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigators examined the pilot's decision-making process regarding the landing site and the execution of the approach. The investigation also confirmed that the aircraft's wheel brake was non-functional at the time of the accident.
Findings
- Improper planning of the landing approach to the improvised field, which resulted in the aircraft touching down in the middle of the chosen area.
- The approach speed was excessively high, ranging from 100 to 110 km/h.
- The approach profile was too high.
- The aircraft's wheel brake was inoperative.