Incident Overview
On September 1, 2015, at 14:04 local time, a glider pilot with approximately 260 total flying hours took off from EPBK using a winch, intending to find thermal updrafts. This was the pilot's seventh flight of the season in a Jantar-type glider.
Flight Sequence
After releasing from the winch at about 300 meters above ground, the pilot retracted the landing gear and began searching for thermals while flying the north traffic pattern. While on the downwind leg of a right-hand circuit, the pilot did not extend the landing gear and did not make a radio call.
At an altitude of approximately 180 meters, near the position for the third turn, the pilot decided to land after encountering no expected thermals and continued the approach and landing with the gear retracted.
Damage Assessment
The glider touched down with the landing gear retracted, resulting in minor damage: paint was scratched on the lower fuselage. After removing the seat pan, localized delamination of the seat pan from the fuselage shell was found in the area of the cockpit, along with remnants of frames in the lower fuselage.
Likely Cause
The incident occurred because the pilot did not extend the landing gear before landing.
Preventive Measures
After the incident, the event was discussed with glider pilots present at the airfield. They were reminded of the need to check the landing gear extension and locking while on the downwind leg and to make a radio report.
Safety Recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued by the investigating commission.