What happened
On August 7, 2025, during the National Glider Competitions at EPGI (Lisie Kąty), a glider takeoff resulted in an excursion on the runway. The flight was part of the Club Class "A" competition, following a four-day weather-induced hiatus. The meteorological conditions were characterized by strong thermals and gusty winds following a cold front.
At approximately 12:10 LMT, an experienced pilot began a takeoff roll using a PZL-101 Gawron towplane equipped with a 30-meter synthetic rope. To mitigate the effects of a left crosswind, the pilot had partially deployed the aerodynamic brakes and applied right rudder. However, immediately upon starting the roll, the SZD-55-1 (registration SP-3852) veered to the left, causing the left wingtip to strike the grass.
As the pilot attempted to correct the deviation, the high power of the towplane caused a sudden surge in tension on the towline, abruptly pulling the glider to the right. The force was sufficient to lift the glider off the ground for approximately one second. During this moment, the pilot released the towline, causing the glider to impact the airfield surface hard. The aircraft performed a wide circle and came to a stop approximately 100 degrees off the intended takeoff heading. There were no injuries to the pilot, but the aircraft sustained serious damage.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the sequence of the takeoff roll, the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft, and the environmental conditions present at the time of the accident. The investigation focused on the pilot's control inputs, the interaction between the glider and the towplane, and the psychological factors influencing the decision-making process during the competition.
Findings
- The primary cause was the loss of control during the initial takeoff phase, likely resulting from an attempt to close the aerodynamic brakes that had been intentionally deployed for the start.
- The SZD-55-1 exhibited limited lateral control effectiveness (aileron authority) during the low-speed phase of the takeoff roll.
- Environmental factors, including thermals and gusty winds from varying directions, complicated the takeoff process.
- Competitive pressure influenced the pilot's decision to continue the takeoff attempt in an effort to maintain their position in the competition sequence, rather than aborting the start.