What happened
On November 30, 2019, a pilot arrived at the Niegowoniczki landing field with the intention of performing a flight toward Rybniki. After retrieving the Skyleader 600 from its hangar, the pilot conducted a pre-flight inspection and reviewed the weather forecast. The forecast indicated surface winds from 300° at 10-15 knots, with local gusts reaching up to 25 knots. Determining that the conditions were suitable, the pilot started and warmed the engine.
After taxiing to the threshold of runway 20, the pilot performed necessary checks, including magneto verification and extending takeoff flaps, before applying full throttle. As the aircraft began its takeoff roll, it experienced a sudden leftward veer. A strong gust of wind from the right caused the aircraft to bank toward the left wing while simultaneously pitching the nose down. Although the pilot applied the right-wheel brake, the left wing made contact with the grassy runway surface, and the propeller struck the ground.
The pilot immediately reduced throttle and shut down the engine. The incident resulted in damage to the propeller blade tips. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the aircraft owner following the occurrence. Investigators examined the aircraft's movement during the takeoff roll and the environmental conditions present at the time. The pilot underwent a breathalyzer test by local police, which returned a result of 0.00 mg/l of alcohol.
Findings
- The pilot made the erroneous decision to initiate takeoff under unfavorable atmospheric conditions.
- The pilot's reaction to the loss of directional control during the initial phase of the takeoff roll was delayed.