What happened
On April 26, 2024, a Glaser-Dirks DG-100 glider, registration SP-3723, was performing a winch launch at Pruszcz Gdański. At an altitude of approximately 5 meters, the aircraft transitioned into a sudden dive. The glider subsequently struck the ground and overturned onto its back. The pilot sustained serious injuries as a result of the impact.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the aircraft following the accident to determine the mechanical state of the glider. During the inspection, investigators found that the elevator was correctly connected to the control system. However, the investigation established that the pin securing the horizontal stabilizer was not installed.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to verify that all aircraft components were correctly assembled after the glider had been put together.
- An incomplete pre-flight inspection was a contributing factor to the occurrence.