Accident
On March 29, 2026, at 16.15 hours local time, an experimental ultralight aircraft, the Rans S-10 Sakota, was conducting a private flight from Kaunas S. Darius and S. Girėnas aerodrome. The aircraft began its takeoff from runway 27. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's tailwheel detached from the structure. The pilot did not observe the separation and remained unaware that the tailwheel was missing for the duration of the flight.
Flight
Following takeoff, the pilot found the engine performance to be unsatisfactory. In response, the pilot elected to return to the aerodrome rather than continue the intended flight. The pilot chose to land on runway 09, which is the reciprocal of the departure runway. The flight lasted approximately two minutes from takeoff to landing.
Landing and Loss of Control
The pilot touched down on runway 09. During the landing roll, the aircraft exhibited poor directional control. The pilot was unable to keep the aircraft aligned with the runway centerline. The aircraft eventually turned around on the runway. During this uncontrolled turn, the right wing of the aircraft scraped against the runway surface, resulting in a scratch on the wing.
Outcome
The pilot was not injured in the incident. The only reported damage to the aircraft was the scratch on the right wing from the contact with the runway. The source does not state any other injuries or damage.