Incident Overview
On 20 August 2020, a student pilot was performing her second solo flight in a SZD-50-3 "Puchacz" glider (registration SP-3403) at Jelenia Góra Airport (EPJG). She had previously completed two check flights with an instructor. The launch by winch, release, circuit pattern, and approach were conducted correctly. During the approach, the instructor provided radio guidance on maintaining the proper glide angle and operating the airbrakes.
Landing and Bounce
The student executed a late and incomplete flare, resulting in the glider touching down first on the nose wheel and then on the main wheel. This caused the glider to bounce. The instructor commanded "release the stick" over the radio. The student's delayed reaction led to a hard landing where the tail struck the ground, followed by a second small bounce and then a ground roll with loss of directional control.
Damage and Injuries
The student pilot sustained no injuries. The glider, however, was substantially damaged.
Reported Causes
The investigation determined two causes for the incident: 1) An error in piloting technique consisting of an improper flare that led to a bounce ("kangaroo" landing). 2) Improper correction of the initial error.
Contributing Circumstances
Two circumstances were identified as favoring the event:
- The student pilot's lack of experience.
- Stress associated with the first solo flights.
Preventive Actions
As a preventive measure, the aircraft operator decided to discuss landing procedures and methods for reacting to irregularities during flight more thoroughly with student pilots.