What happened
On August 7, 2016, at approximately 12:10, a private SZD-42-2 Jantar 2B glider, registration SP-3278, was performing a cross-country flight of approximately 512 km. Upon returning to Mielec (EPML), the pilot began a landing pattern. At the time, another glider was on the final approach for landing on runway 27.
To maintain safe separation from the other aircraft, the pilot of the SP-3ray performed a fourth turn closer to the paved runway area. During the final approach, the pilot reported limited forward visibility due to the low position of the sun on the horizon. While adjusting the flight path toward the airfield square, the glider's main landing gear struck a vertical airfield lighting sign located on the emergency landing strip. The impact caused the nose of the glider to strike the airfield surface, and the aircraft slid approximately 20 meters before coming to a stop near the taxiway edge.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the flight path, the visibility conditions, and the placement of airfield infrastructure. The investigation established that the pilot was attempting to maneuver around an active landing area while managing significant glare from the sun. The investigators also reviewed the airfield's operational documentation and the physical placement of the vertical signage that caused the collision.