Event Details
On May 15, 2015, at 14:10 local time, a glider pilot departed from the Przasnysz landing site for a thermal flight in a SZD-51-1 Junior glider, registration SP-3315. The glider was released from tow at an altitude of 400 meters.
Circumstances
After establishing contact with thermal activity, the pilot operated near the airport. Weather conditions subsequently deteriorated due to an approaching atmospheric front from the west, bringing rain and strong westerly winds. The pilot was blown approximately 10 kilometers east of the airfield and, due to the unfavorable weather, was unable to return to the landing site.
Landing and Damage
The pilot performed an off-airport landing about 4 kilometers from the airport in a field of young grain. During the landing roll, the glider executed a 'cyrkiel' (ground loop) which resulted in damage to the rear fuselage. The glider pilot sustained no injuries.
Cause
The cause of the event was landing in an unprepared terrain in high crop (grain), which resulted in the wing being captured, causing a ground loop and damage to the glider.
Aftermath
No safety recommendations were formulated by the investigating commission, and no preventive actions were taken by the investigating entity.