What happened
On 10 June 2019, a flight instructor and a student pilot were performing PPL(A) training circuits at EPMO, Poland. During the fourth circuit, as the aircraft reached the roundout phase at approximately 4-5 meters altitude, the aircraft began deviating significantly to the left of the runway centerline.
In an attempt to correct the deviation and abort the landing, the instructor applied full throttle but simultaneously pulled the control stick back. This maneuver caused the aircraft to reach a high angle of attack at a very low airspeed, leading to a stall. The Diamond DA20-C1, registration SP-KWG, touched down on the far left edge of the concrete runway.
Following this initial touchdown, the aircraft bounced and drifted onto the adjacent grass. During this phase, the left wingtip struck the ground, causing the nose landing gear to break and the propeller to sustain damage. A subsequent bounce and further lateral movement resulted in a third impact, which tore off the right main landing gear and caused the tail section to break away from the fuselage. The aircraft eventually came to rest approximately 90 meters from the runway. The crew exited the aircraft unassisted and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, flight recordings, and aerodrome video footage. The investigation also included interviews with the crew and an analysis of the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and that the crew was properly licensed and not under the influence of alcohol.
Findings
- The instructor's reaction to the aircraft's deviation from the runway centerline was delayed.
- The decision to initiate a go-around was made too late in the landing sequence.
- The execution of the go-around procedure was incorrect, as the simultaneous application of full power and back-pressure on the stick increased drag and induced a stall.
- The instructor's vigilance may have been reduced by the successful completion of the preceding three circuits.
- High temperatures (29°C) and wind conditions may have acted as contributing factors.