What happened
On June 18, 2023, a student pilot was conducting one of her initial flights in a single-seat GROB G-102 Astir CS, registration D-7375. After successfully completing the fourth turn of the aerodrome circuit at EPVL (Wilcze Laski), the pilot realized the descent path was significantly below the proper approach slope. While flying with the airbrakes extended, the glider lost altitude rapidly, descending to approximately 10–20 meters above the treetops. As the airspeed continued to decay, the aircraft settled into a dense forest roughly 250 meters before the runway threshold, causing damage to one wing. The pilot sustained no injuries and exited the cockpit by climbing down a tree during the recovery process. The glider required a crane to be removed from the site.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the flight sequence and the mechanical operation of the aircraft's airbrake system. The investigation focused on the pilot's handling of the descent and the environmental conditions present during the approach.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was pilot error involving the improper use of airbrakes during the approach to landing.
- The pilot was performing a landing approach into the sun, which likely impaired the assessment of altitude and distance.
- The airbrake lever required significant physical force to operate, making smooth adjustments difficult, particularly for a physically weaker individual.
- The student pilot lacked sufficient flight experience on this specific aircraft type.