What happened
On July 24, 2015, at the Lisie Kąty (EPGI) aerodrome, a student pilot was performing a solo flight in an SZD-9 bis 1E Bocian glider, launched via winch. The flight followed three successful check flights required for solo certification. The takeoff, circuit pattern, and initial approach to the flare were executed correctly. However, during the flare, the glider began to drift to the left. Although the supervising instructor provided radio instructions to correct the heading, the deviation persisted.
As the glider continued its approach, it drifted toward the letter "T" on the runway markings. Despite continued radio commands from the instructor to steer right, the student pilot failed to correct the course. Consequently, the glider veered off the runway and struck a stationary SZD-50-3 Puchacz, registration SP-3154, which was parked outside the runway area. The collision caused damage to the right wing of the SZD-9 bis 1E Bocian and the fuselage of the SP-3154.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the pilot's response to instructor commands, and the positioning of aircraft on the airfield. The investigation established that the student pilot was unable to provide a rational explanation for her actions following the incident. The crew of the investigation also reviewed the airfield organization and the placement of gliders during flight operations.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control during the flare and landing roll, combined with the student pilot's failure to respond to the instructor's corrective radio instructions.
- The stress associated with performing a first solo flight was identified as a contributing factor to the pilot's lack of reaction.
- The placement of the stationary glider near the runway area was noted as a factor in the collision.