What happened
On June 20, 2026, a Cessna 182 J with registration D-ELMI was conducting skydiving operations at the Debrzno aerodrome. After loading four skydivers and the pilot, the aircraft began taxiing from the hangar area toward the runway. The designated taxiway intersects a public road that is open to vehicular traffic; stop signs are posted for road users approaching from both directions.
As the aircraft crossed this intersection, the pilot felt a strong impact on the rear of the fuselage. The force of the collision caused the airplane to rotate sharply to the right, resulting in the propeller striking the tires lining the taxiway edge. The pilot immediately shut down the engine and exited the cabin. Upon inspection, the pilot discovered an overturned motorcycle next to the aircraft, confirming it was the source of the impact. The motorcyclist fled the scene but was later identified by police. At the time of the incident, five people were on board: one pilot and four skydivers. No injuries were sustained by any person on the aircraft.
The investigation
The Polish State Commission for Investigation of Aviation Accidents (PKBWL) conducted a preliminary investigation into the event. Investigators inspected the accident scene and the damaged aircraft, securing relevant documentation. They also obtained materials from the police regarding the collision with the motorcycle. It was established that the pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL(A)) and that the flight was being conducted in Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). Weather conditions were not a factor in the occurrence.
Findings
The aircraft sustained severe damage to the rear fuselage, the leading edge of the right elevator, the propeller, and likely the engine. The collision with the motorcycle was the direct cause of the accident. While no one on board the aircraft was injured, the motorcyclist suffered a broken arm as a result of the impact. The PKBWL noted that the intersection between the taxiway and the public road is marked with stop signs for road users, indicating that the collision involved a ground vehicle failing to yield or observe traffic controls.