History of the Flight
On 14 June 2019, the EASTSIDE YAKS TEAM from Germany flew to an air show in Płock with stopovers at Bautzen and Leszno aerodromes. The three crews landed at Leszno at about 13:30 hrs, refueled, and departed for Płock at about 14:30 hrs in formation. They landed at Płock at about 15:35 hrs. After formalities, the crews checked into the Petropol Hotel, had supper at 19:00 hrs, inspected the air show site along the Vistula River, and returned to their rooms before 22:00 hrs. They arranged breakfast for 07:00 hrs the next day.
On 15 June 2019 at breakfast, the pilot of SP-YDD complained that he could not fall asleep until about 01:00 hrs despite air conditioning. He switched off the air conditioning and opened the window but could not fall asleep.
At about 10:55 hrs LMT, the pilot and owner of the Yak-52 (SP-YDD) took off for an air show during the VII Płock Aviation Picnic. The show occurred over the Vistula River opposite the Płock Old Town. After gaining altitude, the pilot initiated a deliberate spin, from which he did not recover. After 12 turns, the aircraft hit the water surface. As a result, the pilot died on the spot and the aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation
The State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL) investigated the accident. The investigation team included Jacek Bogatko (investigator-in-charge from 24 April 2023), Andrzej Pussak, Tomasz Makowski, Piotr Borowik, Patrycja Pacak, and Piotr Richter.
Cause of the Accident
The PKBWL established the cause of the accident as: a) Insufficient current training in aerobatic flights; b) Lack of adequate pilot rest before commencing flight duties; c) High ambient temperature; d) Loss of situational awareness, probably due to body weakness.
No contributing factors or safety recommendations were proposed.
Wreckage and Impact Information
The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with the water. Further details were not specified.
Medical and Pathological Information
The pilot died as a result of the collision. No other injuries were reported.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Yakovlev Yak-52, registration SP-YDD, owned and operated by a private individual, a citizen of Germany.