Summary
On August 9, 2014, an SZD-30 Pirat glider was involved in an accident during a regional glider competition near Odry, Pomorskie, Poland. The glider lost contact with a thermal and was forced to land in unprepared terrain. The pilot selected a suitable field and performed a correct approach, but just before touchdown the glider struck an earthen embankment overgrown with grass that was not visible from the air. The glider sustained serious damage, while the pilot did not suffer any injuries.
Event Details
The accident occurred during the competition when the glider encountered a loss of thermal lift, necessitating an off-field landing. The pilot chose an appropriate landing area and executed a normal approach. However, an earthen embankment hidden by grass, which was not visible from the air, was present at the touchdown point. The glider impacted this obstacle, resulting in significant structural damage.
Findings
The investigation by the Polish State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) established that the glider struck an earthen embankment overgrown with grass during the landing. The obstacle was not visible from the air. The pilot did not sustain any injuries. No safety recommendations were issued.
Probable Cause
The cause of the accident was the glider striking an earthen embankment overgrown with grass during landing in unprepared terrain. The obstacle was invisible from the air.