What happened
On July 26, 2017, a pilot was conducting training flights at Łódź Lublinek (EPLL) airport using a Cessna 152, registration SP-AKV. The pilot had originally intended to fly a DA-20, but due to maintenance on that aircraft, opted to perform several touch-and-go training circuits in the Cessna 152.
During the third circuit, while on the short final for runway 25, the pilot noticed the aircraft drifting left and banking toward the left wing. After deploying 30° flaps, the pilot attempted to correct the deviation but found the aircraft unresponsive to control inputs. The pilot decided to execute a go-around procedure. Upon increasing engine power, the left bank intensified, initiating a left turn. The pilot then reduced power to counteract the bank and performed a 90° left turn.
While descending on a heading opposite to the landing direction, the aircraft struck trees and subsequently hit the ground on a private property located just outside the airport perimeter. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire. The pilot managed to exit the cockpit on his own, but sustained serious injuries and burns to approximately 30% of his body.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation included a review of industrial airport camera footage and radio communications with the tower. An expert analysis of the engine was conducted by the Institute of Aviation, which confirmed that the engine was functioning normally until the moment of impact. The investigation also examined the aircraft's maintenance logs, which showed that a 100-hour inspection and various engine/propeller services had been completed just one day prior to the accident. The pilot's training records and flight experience were also reviewed.
Findings
- The engine and flight control systems were fully functional and showed no signs of failure prior to the collision.
- The aircraft was properly maintained, and all documentation, including weight and balance, was in order.
- The pilot was qualified, rested, and not under the influence of alcohol.
- Weather conditions at the time of the accident were favorable and did not contribute to the event.
- The change in aircraft type on the day of the flight, combined with a gap of over one month since the pilot's last flight in the Cessna 152, may have indirectly influenced the outcome.