What happened
On August 15, 2017, a student pilot was conducting a training flight at the Wrocław-Szymanów (EPWS) aerodrome. The flight was part of a training program focused on the procedures for securing the SZD-51-1 Junior glider. The flight was conducted using a winch launch method.
After taking off at 18:55 LMT, the pilot established a standard aerodrome circuit. However, while transitioning to the landing straight, the pilot failed to maintain a constant glide angle, leading to fluctuations in the aircraft's airspeed. During the final approach, the glider's speed became excessive. Consequently, the pilot performed a landing without executing the necessary flare.
As a result of the high-speed touchdown, the glider veered 180 degrees during the landing roll. The impact caused the cockpit canopy to crack across its entire length.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the user/operator. The inquiry focused on the flight parameters during the final approach and the pilot's handling of the glide angle and airspeed control during the training maneuver.