What happened
On August 16, 2018, an ultralight aircraft, a Skyleader 600, was conducting a flight from Grudziądz – Lisie Kąty (EPGI) to Rybnik – Gotartowice (EPRG). During the approach to landing at Rybnik, the pilot failed to perform the necessary procedures to extend the landing gear. The pilot realized the gear remained retracted during the landing flare phase. As the aircraft contacted the surface, the propeller struck the runway, and the fuselage impacted the grass strip. The aircraft subsequently rolled approximately 25 meters, slightly veering to the left before coming to a complete stop.
Neither the pilot nor the passenger sustained any injuries during the event. Following the stop, the pilot shut off the electrical power and closed the fuel valve before exiting the cabin with the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation established that the pilot held valid ultralight pilot licenses and a current medical certificate. The aircraft was airworthy and possessed all necessary technical and operational documentation. Post-incident inspections revealed that both propeller blades were damaged, the flaps were deformed, and there was visible rippling on the wing surfaces. Following coordination with the PKBWL, the landing gear was successfully extended and locked, allowing the aircraft to be towed to a hangar at the Flight Training Center.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the failure to complete all procedures required to prepare the aircraft for landing.
- The pilot failed to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.