Flight History
On 29 March 2022, at 09:00 LMT, the pilot of an Aventura II ultralight amphibia, registration N27ZX, began preparations for a recreational flight at EPLS aerodrome. The pilot intended to land on several lakes but did not specify which or provide a return time. CCTV footage showed the pilot preparing the aircraft, starting and testing the engine, taxiing to Runway 23, and taking off at 10:17 LMT. No problems were reported after takeoff.
Accident Circumstances
Around 15:20 LMT near Jezioro Kłeckie (a lake in Wielkopolska Voivodeship), witnesses observed an aircraft approaching from the south. The aircraft made a right turn at low altitude, followed by a steep left turn. At approximately 15:24 LMT, during descent, it collided with the water surface, overturned, and partially submerged. Several minutes later, the aircraft sank completely.
Emergency services were notified. Divers from the State Fire Service located the aircraft and found the pilot in the cockpit. Resuscitation was attempted but was unsuccessful. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was an ultralight amphibia, model Aventura II, with registration N27ZX. It was privately operated. The pilot held a Private Pilot Licence (PPL(A)). Details about total flight hours and recent experience were not specified in the report.
Investigation Findings
The investigation was conducted by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). The wreckage was examined, and data from available sources were analyzed. The aircraft's engine power was found to have been reduced, possibly due to carburetor icing. The wind speed was significant, causing turbulence behind terrain obstacles, which could have increased the aircraft's bank angle.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factor
The most likely cause of the accident was exceeding the maximum bank angle during a turn, while engine power was reduced due to carburetor icing, leading to an aerodynamic stall and spin. A contributing factor was significant wind speed, which caused turbulence behind terrain obstacles, resulting in an increase of the aircraft bank angle.
Conclusion
No safety recommendations were proposed by the PKBWL following the investigation.