What happened
On August 3, 2012, at approximately 13:38 LMT, a glider pilot initiated a training flight from Zamość-Mokre (EPZA) airport. The flight, part of a thermal and ridge soaring training program, involved an SZD-30 Pirat being towed by a Jak-12M aircraft. The takeoff and initial climb proceeded normally.
At an altitude of approximately 600 m AGL, the aircraft encountered thermal lift, which caused the glider to rise above the towing aircraft. Following a visual signal from the tow plane and a radio command to release, the pilot pulled the release mechanism. However, the pilot failed to verify that the towline had actually disconnected. While performing a turn, the aircraft entered a dive. The pilot reported a lack of response to elevator inputs.
Once the towline eventually severed, the sudden change in forces caused the glider's canopy to open violently. The glider continued its descent at a steep angle, gaining significant speed. Recognizing the imminent impact with the ground, the pilot executed an emergency bailout, jettisoning the canopy and exiting the cockpit through the left side. The glider entered a spin and struck the ground, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. The pilot successfully deployed a parachute and landed with minor injuries.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the aircraft, the pilot's credentials, and the flight conditions. The investigation established that the pilot held a valid glider license, radio operator certificate, and medical certification. At the time of the accident, the pilot's recent flight experience was limited, with only 27 hours of total time on the SZD-30 Pirat and no solo flight time on that specific type during the 2012 season.
Technical inspections revealed that the glider's empty weight exceeded the permitted limit by 8 kg, though the center of gravity remained within permissible limits. No mechanical malfunctions were identified that could have contributed to the accident prior to the flight. Weather conditions were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10 km and moderate winds.