What happened
On April 12, 2024, at approximately 18:00, a motor glider, registration SP-MGDY, departed from a takeoff and landing site in Gołcza for a recreational flight. The pilot was flying in the vicinity of Miechów at an altitude of approximately 150 meters. While flying south along the construction site of the S7 expressway to observe progress, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn toward the west near the village of Wielki Dół. This turn was performed toward the sun, which was positioned low on the horizon.
During the maneuver, the pilot unintentionally descended. While turning, the pilot failed to notice high-voltage power lines suspended at an altitude of approximately 12 meters over the highway construction area. The SP-MGDY struck one of the wires, causing the line to tension and the aircraft to be thrown backward. The motor glider subsequently crashed onto the highway construction site, approximately 35 meters from the wire. The impact resulted in serious injuries to the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft. The high-voltage line was also damaged.
The investigation
The PKBWL reviewed the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the pilot's statements and the flight path. The investigation established that the aircraft was operating without valid mandatory third-party liability insurance and lacked a valid technical inspection. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the aircraft was flying at an insufficient altitude during the maneuver.
Findings
- The pilot performed a turn toward the sun, which likely caused visual impairment.
- The pilot failed to maintain sufficient altitude during the westward turn.
- High-voltage power lines were not detected due to the low altitude and the pilot's focus on the construction site.
- The aircraft was operating without required insurance and a valid technical inspection.