Introduction
On 20 June 2019, a serious incident occurred involving a Pipistrel Virus SW-100 aircraft, registration SP-SEAT, at the Świebodzice airfield (EPWC). The aircraft was operated by a private owner and piloted by a single pilot. The incident resulted in damage to the aircraft's nose landing gear, but neither the pilot nor the passenger sustained injuries.
Flight Details
The flight originated from Katowice Muchowiec (EPKM) at 06:33 local time. The planned route included Nysa, Kłodzko, Lubań, Szklarska Poręba, and return to EPKM. Due to physiological needs, the pilot deviated from the planned route and decided to land at Świebodzice. The flight was conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC) in daylight. Weather conditions were not considered a factor in the incident.
Incident Description
Upon arrival at Świebodzice, the pilot performed a low pass to assess the wind direction and then decided to land on runway 23. According to the pilot's account, the approach was performed with a flat angle. After touchdown, the pilot realized the ground was wet, causing the aircraft's nose gear to collapse abruptly. The nose gear was damaged and the nose wheel detached. The aircraft then slid on the damaged gear for about a dozen meters before coming to a stop. Both occupants remained unharmed.
Probable Cause
The investigation concluded that the probable cause of the incident was a three-point landing caused by a flat approach profile.
Aftermath
The aircraft sustained damage to the nose landing gear assembly. No safety recommendations were issued by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL).