What happened
On July 19, 2019, at approximately 09:50 LMT, a Pipistrel Virus SW, registration SP-SGWT, was performing training circuits at Aleksandrowice Airport (EPBA) under VFR conditions. The crew consisted of the aircraft owner, acting as the pilot, and an instructor acting as the safety pilot.
The flight was part of a series of introductory training sessions involving the aircraft type. During the seventh circuit of the day, the safety pilot noted increasing wind speeds and suggested a break following the completion of the current circuit. While on final approach to runway 27, the safety pilot was in control of the aircraft.
During the flare and level-off phase, a wind gust from the left caused the aircraft's altitude to increase and its airspeed to decrease. The safety pilot failed to arrest the increase in altitude and delayed the decision to execute a go-around. Additionally, the pilot applied power too late. Consequently, the aircraft rolled onto its right wing and made a hard landing on the right main landing gear.
The impact caused the right main gear leg to break, the right wing tip to sustain damage, and the propeller blades to shatter. The aircraft subsequently veered 130 degrees from the runway centerline before coming to a stop. The crew members were uninjured.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the flight sequence, meteorological conditions, and crew qualifications. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy, properly documented, and insured. The pilot in command held the necessary qualifications for the flight, though it was noted that the safety pilot did not hold a valid UAP(L) rating at the time of the event. The investigation also noted that the safety pilot left the scene before police arrived and was not tested for alcohol consumption.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the safety pilot's delayed reaction to a wind gust during the landing phase.
- Meteorological conditions, specifically the presence of wind gusts, contributed to the loss of control during the flare.
- The safety pilot failed to initiate an immediate go-around following the sudden increase in altitude and loss of airspeed.