What happened
On 10 May 2025, at approximately 16:30 LMT, a Konner K1-S19 ultralight helicopter, registration SP-HTMS, was involved in an accident in Stopin, near Sierpc. The flight had commenced shortly after takeoff from the village of Kępa, near Płońsk.
While cruising at an altitude of approximately 1,300 ft, the pilot noted loud knocking noises emanating from the engine compartment. This was accompanied by a change in engine sound, a low RPM warning on the instrument panel, and a rightward tilt of the aircraft. The pilot determined that the engine had shut down. In response, the pilot adjusted the collective pitch lever to the lower position and stabilized the main rotor RPM at above 95% with an airspeed of 65 kt.
The pilot then executed an autorotation landing into a field, oriented into the wind. Although the helicopter initially touched down on both skids, it slid approximately 3 meters across the terrain. During this movement, the right skid dug into the ground, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and roll onto its left side. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation team conducted a visual inspection of the aircraft and collected statements from the occupants. The team verified the pilot's qualifications and reviewed all relevant aircraft documentation. During the onsite examination, investigators secured fuel samples and inspected the electrical fuses and the kinematic continuity of both the main and tail rotor drives. No defects were identified in these specific components that could have contributed to the accident.
Findings
- The helicopter sustained extensive damage, including a fractured tail boom, destruction of both the main and tail rotors, and the engine being torn from its mounts. Several cabin and technical doors were ripped off the airframe.
- The investigation established that the pilot's license had expired at the time of the occurrence.