What happened
On July 22, 2021, a pilot operated a FOURNIER - RF9 motor glider, registration SP-0065, at the Przasnysz airfield (EPPZ). The pilot's intention was to perform a cross-country flight to Watorowo (EPWT). Following refueling and a pre-flight inspection, the pilot decided to conduct a training circuit over the airfield using engine-off gliding techniques.
While the takeoff following the circuit was performed correctly, the pilot failed to extend the landing gear while on the downwind leg. Furthermore, the pilot did not verify the gear position or ensure it was locked during the straight-in approach. Consequently, the aircraft touched down with the landing gear retracted. The impact caused damage to both propeller blades and resulted in abrasions on the lower surface of the center section. The pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the pilot's actions, and the aircraft's configuration. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, and the pilot held a valid license, medical certification, and all necessary ratings. The investigation focused on the failure to extend the gear and the lack of a final configuration check prior to touchdown.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a pilot error involving the failure to extend the landing gear on the downwind leg and the failure to perform a landing configuration check on the final approach.
- A contributing factor was a significant gap in the pilot's recent flight experience, having had a break in glider operations exceeding 24 months.
- The visibility of the landing gear indication system was poor, as the small red LEDs indicating a retracted gear are positioned low on the instrument panel.
Safety action
An additional warning system is planned for installation to alert the crew when the landing gear is retracted if the throttle is moved to idle or if the aerodynamic brake release lever is operated.