Incident Description
On 30 June 2020, a female pilot aged 19, with approximately 32 hours of total flight time, was conducting a thermal flight in a SZD-51 Junior glider (registration SP-4090) from Piła aerodrome (EPPI). During the approach to land on runway 21, the pilot observed a Puchatek glider standing on the runway to the left of the designated direction, and a Puchacz glider on the concrete runway to the right. A person was standing in the middle of the grass runway. While monitoring the person, the pilot attempted to maintain a safe distance by deviating the flight path to the right. At that moment, she assessed that the descent path was too steep and that touchdown would result in an undershoot.
Upon touchdown on uneven grass surface before the concrete taxiway, the glider bounced to a height of several meters, losing speed. After a second touchdown, the right wing contacted the ground, causing the glider to change direction towards the stationary Puchacz glider. Consequently, a collision occurred between the two gliders. The Puchacz fuselage was damaged, and the Junior sustained damage to its right wing and canopy. No injuries were sustained by the pilot or any other persons.
Investigation Findings
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) reviewed the final report submitted by the aircraft operator. The commission determined the cause of the incident to be pilot error, consisting of incorrect planning of the descent path during landing. No contributing factors were identified.
Preventive Actions
The incident was discussed during the post-flight briefing. No additional safety recommendations were issued.
Cause
The probable cause of the serious incident was pilot error consisting of incorrect planning of the descent path during landing.