What happened
On July 9, 2017, a training flight was conducted from the Lisie-Kąty aerodrome. The pilot, flying an SZD-41A Jantar Standard, embarked on a 220 km triangular route via Raciąż and Ciche. During the flight, the pilot utilized thermal lift ranging from 1.5 to 2 m/s, reaching altitudes between 700 and 1200 m. After discharging water ballast at 700 m, the pilot struggled to find sufficient lift and eventually decided to land in a field near Mikołajskie at an altitude of approximately 300 m.
While performing a landing pattern, the pilot noted an altitude of 200 m and attempted additional maneuvers to lose height. On the final approach, the pilot estimated the altitude at roughly 100 m. As the glider entered a field of tall rye (exceeding 1 m in height), the pilot closed the air brakes. Upon touchdown, one wing was caught by the tall crops, causing a loss of directional control. The pilot attempted to correct the movement, but the glider tilted excessively, performed a 180-degree pivot, and moved backward several meters before coming to a stop. The aircraft sustained serious damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the environmental conditions at the landing site, and the pilot's actions during the final approach. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was not under the influence of alcohol and that the aircraft was operated according to standard procedures prior to the landing phase.