Incident Overview
On 30 April 2011 at 17:11 local time, a SZD-50-3 Puchacz glider departed from Białystok airfield (EPBK) using a winch launch for a check flight (KTP/Z). The crew consisted of two pilots: a glider instructor being checked and an instructor pilot conducting the check.
Flight Sequence
After launching, the pilots attempted to find thermal lift but, due to lack of updrafts, directed the glider toward the third turn of the traffic pattern. The third turn was executed at an altitude of 190 meters, followed by the fourth turn at 140 meters. The glider was then aligned for landing on runway heading 065°.
Collision with Tree
During the final approach phase, at approximately 20 meters above ground, the glider's horizontal stabilizer struck the top of a tree. The glider continued to land without further incident.
Damage
Post-landing inspection revealed minor damage to the right side of the horizontal stabilizer.
Contributing Factors
The investigation determined that the event was caused by an excessively low final approach and an insufficient safety margin over the forest located at the western edge of the airfield.
Safety Actions
No safety recommendations were issued by the investigating commission.