What happened
On August 17, 2025, a Schleicher ASW 19B glider, registration SP-4153, was performing glider flights at the Rudniki aerodrome (EPRU). Following a four-hour thermal flight, the pilot initiated an approach to the grass runway RWY 26R. Due to active thermals and turbulence, the pilot maintained a high approach speed, estimated between 110 and 120 km/h, while using partially closed air brakes.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced (a phenomenon known as "kangaroo"). In response to the bounce, the pilot applied a decisive forward control input. This caused the glider to land nose-first, at which point the right wingtip caught the grass. The resulting forces induced an uncontrolled ground loop (rotation around the vertical axis), leading to a structural failure of the tail section and cracking of the cockpit canopy.
There were no injuries to the pilot, though the aircraft sustained significant damage.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the flight sequence and the pilot's actions during the landing phase. The investigation focused on the transition from the initial bounce to the subsequent nose-down impact and the loss of directional control.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to execute a proper flare phase and maintain stability prior to touchdown, which resulted in a hard landing and the initial bounce.
- The pilot's reaction following the bounce—applying forward stick—contributed to the nose-first impact at an increased speed.
- A failure to maintain lateral balance led to the right wingtip striking the ground after the nose impact, triggering the ground loop and subsequent structural failure.