Introduction
On June 25, 2024, a SZD-51-1 Junior glider, registration SP-3470, was involved in an accident during an auto-tow launch at Piła airfield (EPPI). The glider was being operated by a 42-year-old student pilot under the supervision of an instructor. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious injuries.
Accident Sequence
Glider towing operations were conducted from a grass runway parallel to the asphalt RWY21 using a synthetic towline approximately 500 meters long attached to a powerful pickup truck with automatic transmission, driven by an experienced operator. The tow vehicle accelerated on the paved surface while the glider began its ground roll on the grass. The student pilot initiated the roll after receiving clearance from the instructor.
Video evidence showed the glider maintaining a left-wing-down attitude during the roll and remaining on its main wheel for an extended distance, indicating the control stick was held forward. Despite achieving sufficient speed, the glider did not transition to a climb. The instructor issued two commands to release the towline, but the student did not respond. The tow vehicle driver heard the commands and began braking.
As the glider approached an area of unkempt tall grass at the end of the mowed strip, the left wingtip contacted the tall vegetation. The glider then performed a half-rotation combined with a brief uncontrolled climb, followed by a vertical impact with the ground.
Aircraft and Personnel
The glider, a single-seat training sailplane, was airworthy with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and maintenance release. The student pilot held a valid Class 2 medical certificate and had approximately 30 hours total glider flight time, including about 7 hours solo. His experience on the SZD-51-1 Junior type was minimal—one 1-minute flight two years prior. The supervising instructor held a valid SPL with FI Restricted rating.
Meteorological Conditions
The launch took place in the evening after thermal activity had ceased, under calm atmospheric conditions that did not contribute to the accident.
Injuries and Damage
The student pilot sustained serious injuries and remained conscious after the crash. He was extricated by rescue services and transported to a hospital. The glider was destroyed in the impact.
Causes
The investigation identified the following causes and contributing factors:
1. Prolonged ground roll on the main wheel due to improper speed assessment during the takeoff roll. 2. Failure to transition to a gentle climb despite achieving adequate speed. 3. Persistent left-wing-down attitude during the roll, leading to the wingtip contacting grass and loss of control. 4. Failure by the student to release the towline during the abnormal ground roll.