What happened
On November 16, 2019, a DV-1 Skylark, registration OK-XUA71, crashed into overhead electrical wires near the village of Křešice, Czech Republic. The aircraft had departed from the Libáň airfield with the intention of landing at the Litoměřice airfield. However, the pilot did not complete the landing and instead continued a low-altitude flight along the Elbe River.
While flying at an altitude of approximately 20 meters, the pilot struck the lower phase conductors of a 22 kV power line. The impact was severe enough to tear the rear section of the fuselage, including the control surfaces, from the aircraft. The remaining portion of the plane struck the surface of the river and quickly sank to a depth of approximately 3 meters. The pilot sustained fatal injuries during the collision and subsequent impact with the water.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft wreckage, witness statements, and meteorological data. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying at a very low altitude before hearing a loud impact. Forensic analysis of the wreckage showed significant damage to the keel and stabilizer, consistent with a collision with the wires. The investigation also noted that the engine and propeller remained visually intact, but the fuel tanks contained approximately 45 liters of fuel heavily contaminated with water, which had entered through breaches in the tank seals caused by the crash.
Medical examinations determined that the pilot's death was caused by a fatal injury to the brainstem resulting from intense blunt force trauma during the collision and impact. While the pilot was medically fit and held a valid license, the investigation noted that the aircraft was flying below the minimum required altitude for VFR operations.
Findings
- The pilot failed to maintain the minimum required flight altitude above the ground and water as prescribed by LAA ČR UL 1 regulations.
- The pilot likely failed to see the 22 kV power lines, or only spotted them at the last moment, attempting a maneuver that could not prevent the collision.
- The aircraft struck the lower phase conductors of the electrical lines while flying at approximately 20 meters.
- The overhead electrical lines lacked warning markings at the point where they cross the river.
- The impact forces were sufficient to cause the structural failure of the aircraft's rear section and lead to the pilot's death.