Incident Summary
On 5 June 2019, at approximately 19:50 local time, a serious incident occurred at Gliwice Airport (EPGL) involving a Jak-12M aircraft and two gliders. The Jak-12M, while taxiing to tow a PW-5 glider, collided with a stationary SZD-50-3 Puchacz glider. No injuries were reported, and both the aircraft and the glider sustained minor damage.
Sequence of Events
The pilot of the Jak-12M intended to perform a tow for a launch of the PW-5 glider. Before entering the cockpit, the pilot had been managing flight operations but handed over those duties to another instructor. That instructor, who became responsible for flight direction, was checking the glider pilot's readiness and did not observe the aircraft as it began taxiing.
During taxi, the engine cowling of the Jak-12M completely obscured the pilot's view of the Puchacz glider, which was parked on the left side. The left wing of the Jak-12M struck the upper part of the Puchacz's rudder. After the collision, the pilot notified the State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) and the police. A breathalyzer test showed an alcohol content of 0.00 mg/l.
Aircraft and Personnel
The pilot held a valid Private Pilot License (PPL(A)) and was qualified for the flight. The aircraft was airworthy, had the required technical documentation, and was insured. The pilot did not sustain any injuries. The Jak-12M and the Puchacz glider both received minor damage.
Cause and Contributing Factors
The direct cause of the incident was pilot error: failure to observe proper taxiing procedures for a tailwheel aircraft. Contributing factors included taxiing without clearance from the flight director and the positioning of two gliders side by side on the runway instead of one behind the other.
Outcome
The State Commission did not issue any safety recommendations. The aircraft operator discussed the incident during a briefing with aviation personnel and instructors. The investigation concluded on 6 August 2019.