Incident Overview
On 5 May 2018, at 13:21 local time, an aircraft towing a glider experienced a failed takeoff at Pociūnai aerodrome. The tow aircraft, a PZL-104 Wilga-35A registered LY-BHK, was pulling a LAK-12 Lietuva glider registered LY-GCW. According to the safety investigation, the combination did not attain the required speed and height for a normal takeoff.
Sequence of Events
During the tow, the glider pilot decided to release from the towline. Subsequently, the glider pilot attempted to turn around and land back at the aerodrome. During this maneuver, the glider struck trees and fell into a forested area. The glider was destroyed in the impact. The glider pilot was not injured. The tow aircraft, the PZL-104 Wilga-35A, completed a circle and landed safely at the aerodrome without further incident.
Investigation Timeline
The safety investigation was initiated on the same day, 5 May 2018, and officially started on 3 May 2019. An interim report was issued on 11 July 2019. External consultations took place on 5 March 2020. The final safety investigation report was released on 5 March 2020. Correspondence regarding safety recommendations was sent to the Transport Competence Agency, JSC "Sportinė Aviacija ir Ko", and the Lithuanian Transport Safety Administration throughout 2020 and 2021. Responses were received from the Lithuanian Transport Safety Administration on 2 June 2020, and from the Transport Competence Agency on 4 June 2020 and 5 August 2021.
Damage and Injuries
The glider LAK-12 Lietuva (LY-GCW) was destroyed. The glider pilot sustained no injuries. The tow aircraft PZL-104 Wilga-35A (LY-BHK) remained undamaged.