Factual Information
On 20 July 2019, a PZL M18 "DROMADER" aircraft, registration LZ-8008, operated by „ТРАКИЯ ЕР” ООД (Trakiya Er Ltd.), was conducting agricultural flights from a temporary uncertified airstrip near the village of Kolarovo, Radnevo municipality, Stara Zagora region. The pilot was the sole occupant.
History of the Flight
The aircraft was engaged in fertilizing a rice field. The day's first flight began at 06:00 local time. During the 15th flight of the day, at approximately 09:00 local time, the aircraft was taking off from runway 24. About 300 meters from the northeast-east end of the perimeter fence, the aircraft lost directional control and struck 13 concrete fence posts. The first contact occurred at coordinates 42°20'44"N 025°44'12"E. The fence posts were demolished. The aircraft then came to a stop in a harvested field adjacent to the airstrip at coordinates 42°20'42"N 025°44'11"E. The pilot evacuated the cockpit with minor injuries.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained minor injuries. The aircraft sustained significant damage.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined the probable cause as: distraction of the pilot during the takeoff stage due to spontaneous opening of the left cabin door. A contributing cause was the relatively small dimensions of the side safety strips of the runway.