What happened
On July 18, 2025, a motor glider, registration SP-MSSZ, was performing a circuit pattern at EPWK (Kruszynina). The crew, consisting of a pilot and a pilot-passenger, commenced the flight with the intention of conducting airfield circuits. After performing an engine check and confirming the runway was clear, the aircraft departed Runway 26N.
During the circuit, the aircraft climbed to approximately 200 m AGL before reaching an altitude of 240 m on the downwind leg. At this time, another motor glider was on final approach for landing. As the crew transitioned into the fourth turn to establish the final approach, the aircraft passed over trees located ahead of the airfield at an altitude of approximately 80–100 m. During this phase, the pilot attempted to correct the lateral balance by raising the left wing. However, at an altitude of approximately 4–6 m, the aircraft tilted again toward the left wing.
Both occupants were holding the control column at the time of the instability. Despite attempts to react, the Aero Profi TL struck the runway surface with its front and left wheels, causing the aircraft to capsize. The pilot-passenger sustained serious injuries, while the pilot sustained light injuries. The aircraft sustained significant damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the control inputs of both occupants, and the aerodynamic conditions during the final approach. The investigation established that the pilot believed the approach was being flown within the aerodynamic wake left by the preceding motor glider.