Accident Overview
On 4 June 2020, at approximately 15:08 local time, a privately owned SZD-30 Pirat glider, registration SP-3996, was involved in an accident during an off-field landing near Gromada, Biłgoraj, Poland. The pilot, a 22-year-old male holding a valid SPL license with 63 total flying hours (43 solo), was conducting a cross-country flight from Zamość airport (EPZA) via Stalowa Wola and Biłgoraj. The glider was substantially damaged; the pilot sustained no injuries.
Flight and Conditions
The pilot departed Zamość at 10:40 behind a tow aircraft and released, encountering thermals. He departed on the planned route around 11:34 and reached the first turn point near 13:00. Weather conditions deteriorated near the second turn point (Biłgoraj). Around 14:00, at about 470 m altitude near Majdan Gromadzki, unable to find lift, the pilot decided to land in an unprepared field. The weather was VFR/VMC, sunny afternoon, with wind approximately 20 km/h from the right and slightly behind the intended landing direction.
Approach and Landing
The pilot did not properly assess the wind direction. To lose altitude, he performed S-turns, but poor planning and the unfavorable wind component resulted in a too-low, too-short approach misaligned with the field axis. To correct, he executed a forward slip to the right. Just before flare, he rolled out of the slip, causing the glider to touch down with a yaw (traverse), leading to a loss of directional control to the left during the landing roll.
Collision and Damage
The narrow field prevented avoidance of tall bushes along its edge. The glider's left wing struck the bushes, causing a violent 90-degree rotation. Damage included the left wingtip being torn off, the left center-section joint area damaged, and cracks in the fuselage skin near the cockpit and tail section.
Pilot and Glider Information
The pilot had valid licenses, medical certificate (with VDL limitation), and radio operator certificate. His recent flying (last 90 days) included 21 flights (14h 57min), of which 12 with an instructor (3h 16min). He held a current practical skills check and ratings for three glider types. The glider had valid airworthiness documentation and liability insurance. A post-accident alcohol test showed 0.00 mg/L.
Findings
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation determined that the weather conditions affected the landing. The pilot had the required qualifications. The glider was serviceable. The accident resulted in substantial damage but no pilot injuries.
Probable Cause
The probable cause was loss of directional control during the landing roll in an off-field landing, resulting in a collision with bushes.
Contributing Circumstances
Factors that contributed to the event included landing with a tailwind and crosswind component, and the pilot's limited experience.