What happened
On August 5, 2017, at approximately 17:45 LMT, an ultralight SkyRanger was performing a landing approach on runway 14 at Góraszka Airport [EPGO]. The flight, which consisted of a 10-minute circuit for the purpose of building flight hours, was being conducted by a pilot holding a UACP certificate.
During the landing phase, the aircraft bounced twice against the aerodrome surface. Following these bounces, the aircraft underwent a capsize. The pilot, who was uninjured, was able to exit the aircraft unaided. The aircraft sustained severe damage to the propeller, landing gear, and the forward section of the fuselage, as well as damage to the underside of the wings.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the aircraft owner and user in coordination with the PKBWL. The investigation focused on the sequence of the landing and the pilot's decision-making process. The investigation established that the meteorological conditions at the time—characterized by CAVOK and a light wind of 270/3 kts—were not contributing factors to the accident. No mechanical malfunctions or technical failures were identified in the aircraft prior to or during the flight.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was pilot error, specifically involving an excessive touchdown speed.
- The pilot failed to execute a go-around after the initial bounce from the runway surface.