What happened
On June 22, 2018, a student pilot was conducting solo circuit training at Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (EPRZ) in a Tecnam P2008. The flight was part of a standard PPL(A) training program, specifically practicing touch-and-go landings. During the first circuit, while positioned on the final approach for runway 27, the tower controller informed the pilot of the wind conditions (2/m/s from 270°).
As the aircraft reached the flare phase, a strong wind gust caused the aircraft to lift unexpectedly and lose airspeed. Although the supervising instructor issued a radio command to execute a go-around, the student pilot responded with a delay. Due to insufficient engine power application, the aircraft entered a stall. The left wingtip struck the runway, followed by the nose gear hitting the surface. The impact caused the nose gear strut to break, leading to further damage to the propeller and a second strike of the left wing against the ground. The aircraft subsequently veered off the runway onto the grass.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator's commission, established that the aircraft was airworthy and all necessary documentation was in order. The student pilot, who had 53 flight hours, was medically fit and had no impairments. Post-incident testing for both the student and the instructor confirmed zero alcohol consumption. The investigation focused on the flight dynamics during the flare and the pilot's reaction to the meteorological change.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was pilot error involving an improper reaction to a strong wind gust during the final stage of the flare.
- A sudden gust of wind caused an uncommanded increase in altitude and a subsequent loss of airspeed.
- The student pilot failed to apply sufficient power to execute a successful go-around after being instructed to do so.
- The failure of the nose gear strut and subsequent propeller damage were direct results of the landing gear striking the runway during the stall.
Safety action
Following the incident, the flight training organization reviewed the event with all flight crews. The organization implemented measures to emphasize correct go-around procedures during various phases of approach and increased the frequency of touch-and-go practice within the training syllabus.