Accident Details
On 18 July 2025, at approximately 19:15 local time, a microlight aircraft (type Aero Profi TL, registration SP-MSSZ) was prepared for a circuit at EPWK Kruszyn airport. The pilot, aged 45 with 39 flight hours, and a pilot-passenger (also holding a PHGP license, with 156 flight hours) occupied the aircraft. After taxiing to the threshold of runway 26N and performing an engine run-up, the pilot announced on the Kruszyn Radio frequency that they were occupying the runway and commencing takeoff.
Following a left-hand circuit departure, the microlight climbed to about 200 m above ground level (AGL), then to 240 m on the downwind leg. Meanwhile, another microlight was on approach to land. During the third turn, the pilot reduced engine power and executed the fourth turn to align with the long final approach for runway 26N, establishing approach speed.
Final Approach and Impact
While flying over trees before the airfield, at an estimated height of 80–100 m, the pilot corrected lateral balance by raising the left wing. At approximately 4–6 m above ground, just before flare, the microlight again banked left. Both pilots were holding the controls at that moment. Despite their corrective attempts, the aircraft struck the runway surface with its front and left wheel, subsequently overturning.
According to the pilot, the approach and landing occurred within the wake turbulence left by the preceding microlight. After the impact, the pilot switched off the ignition, and both occupants unbuckled their seatbelts and moved to a safe distance. Witnesses alerted emergency services, who transported the injured to hospital. The pilot-passenger sustained serious injuries, while the pilot suffered minor injuries. The microlight was substantially damaged.
Causes and Contributing Factors
The investigation identified two causes of the accident: 1. The pilot's failure to maintain lateral balance control of the microlight's wing during the final approach. 2. Dual control inputs by both pilots, resulting in an incomplete 'feel' of the controls.
The operator proposed maintaining increased separation from other aircraft during landing as a preventive measure. No safety recommendations were issued by the commission.