What happened
On June 19, 2016, a private TL 2000 Sting, registration SP-SKNK, was performing a three-hour VFR flight. The flight concluded with an approach to runway 11 at the Żabia Wola landing field. During the final stage of the flare, a wind gust passing through a gap in nearby trees caused the aircraft's left wing to lift, leading to a loss of directional control toward the right.
In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied decisive left rudder and aileron inputs. However, the aircraft entered an area of surrounding trees, resulting in a significant left wing dip and a forward pitch. This maneuver caused the wingtip to strike the ground. Following the landing roll, the engine was shut down, and the pilot exited the aircraft uninjured.
Post-flight inspection revealed damage to the aileron, propeller, and both the main and nose landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aerodynamic effects of the surrounding terrain and the pilot's control inputs during the landing phase. The inquiry examined the impact of the narrow runway width and the presence of tall trees on the aircraft's stability during the flare.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a delayed and likely excessive pilot reaction to a lateral wind gust during the flare.
- Contributing factors included the pilot's fatigue or diminished alertness following a three-hour flight conducted in high temperatures without a landing break.
- The narrow 30-meter runway, bordered by tall trees, created a high-risk environment for turbulence and unpredictable wind gusts.