Accident Summary
On 12 May 2020, around midday, a Jantar 2B glider (registration SP-3278) and a Job-15 tow plane (registration D-EJHO) departed from Milewo airfield (EPMX) for the first flight of the day. The takeoff occurred during a rain shower. During the takeoff roll, the glider's airbrakes opened fully, preventing the combination from climbing. After crossing the airfield boundary fence at an altitude of about 2–3 meters, the glider pilot released the tow rope on command from the tow plane pilot. The tow plane pilot executed a safe circuit and landed without incident. The glider pilot performed an emergency landing straight ahead on a field extending from the runway. During the final rollout, the glider exited the field, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot did not sustain injuries.
Flight History
On the day of the accident, glider aerotows for recreational and training thermal soaring were planned at Milewo. The glider Jantar 2B (SP-3278) was first in line. Thermal conditions existed, with forecast scattered rain showers. Wind was from 300 degrees at 14 knots. At approximately 11:56 LMT, the tow plane pilot taxied to the glider. The glider pilot strapped in, verified canopy closure and trimmer position, set flaps to takeoff position (-1), and checked that the airbrake lever was closed. The towline was attached, and the glider pilot transmitted "take up slack." At takeoff time, around 12:01 LMT, rain began to fall. During the takeoff roll, the glider pilot moved flaps to position 0. After about 500 meters, near the airfield infrastructure buildings, the glider began to lift off. A person at the start line radioed "airbrakes." The glider pilot did not hear this call. Crossing the airfield boundary fence, the combination was at 2–3 meters altitude. The tow plane pilot could not increase horizontal or climb speed and assessed that the combination could not clear obstacles ahead. He radioed "release" to the glider, then performed a correct circuit and landed safely. After release, the glider pilot made an emergency landing straight ahead. During the final roll, the glider left the field, causing substantial damage to the airframe.
Investigation Findings
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) determined the probable cause to be: improper locking of the airbrakes before takeoff. Contributing circumstances included: start in rain, and incorrect pilot position in the cockpit, which prevented use of the main wheel brake. The investigation did not propose safety recommendations.