What happened
On March 17, 2019, a pilot operating a TL-300 and Sirius (registration OK-SUA48) arrived at the Obory airfield near Konstancin-Jeziorna for several training flights. The pilot had purchased the aircraft approximately three weeks prior to the event. After performing standard pre-flight inspections and engine warm-up, the pilot departed from runway 30. The takeoff, climb, and circuit phases proceeded without incident.
During the landing approach, specifically during the flare phase, the aircraft encountered a sudden, strong gust of wind from the left. This gust caused the aircraft to drift toward the right edge of the runway. The pilot was unable to react in time to counteract the wind, resulting in a hard landing. The impact caused the nose gear strut to break, subsequently leading to the aircraft flipping over.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's credentials, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid Czech ultralight pilot qualifications and was not under the influence of alcohol. The aircraft was found to be in airworthy condition, with all required documentation present and no evidence of exceeding weight limits. The investigation also analyzed weather data, noting a wind from 210° at up to 14 knots, which was increasing throughout the afternoon.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of control of the aircraft during the final phase of landing.
- The pilot's limited practical experience with this specific aircraft type, having owned it for only three weeks, was a contributing factor.
- Meteorological conditions, specifically the wind speed and direction on the day of the flight, likely contributed to the occurrence.