What happened
On July 24, 2017, at approximately 12:26 LMT, a pilot was conducting a training flight in a PW-5 Smyk glider departing from Mielec Aerodrome (EPML). During the landing phase on the 09L grass runway, the pilot maintained an excessive approach speed. After the main wheel made contact with the ground, the glider lifted off the surface again. In an attempt to shorten the landing roll, the pilot pushed the control stick forward, causing the nose gear to strike the grass runway with increased force. This impact resulted in damage to the nose gear and caused the cockpit canopy to detach from its forward latch. The impact also damaged the nose gear mounting and a portion of the fuselage. The glider continued its roll without further complications.
The investigation
The investigation established that meteorological conditions at the aerodrome did not contribute to the incident. The analysis focused on the pilot's maneuvers during the landing sequence and the physical impact of the nose gear on the runway surface.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was excessive approach speed.
- The pilot attempted to shorten the landing roll on the airfield.
- Contributing factors included improper planning of the various phases of the landing.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the pilot's errors during the landing were reviewed. It was recommended that the pilot complete eight training flights with an instructor, specifically focusing on adjusting the glider's speed to match the different phases of the landing process.