What happened
On June 30, 2021, at 17:40 local time, a WT-9 Dynamic, registration OM-DOC, was performing a takeoff from the private airfield LKNAPA in Napajedla. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's extended landing gear made contact with tall grass located just beyond the runway end. This contact caused a significant loss of airspeed and lift, leading to the aircraft impacting the ground.
The pilot attempted a slight left turn toward a section of terrain that appeared level; however, that area also contained high vegetation. The impact resulted in the engine propeller stopping, damage to the left wing, and the separation of the landing gear. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, escaped without injury.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the pilot's statements, aircraft documentation, and the airfield conditions. The investigation established that the airfield's runway (RWY 06) had a longitudinal slope and a length of only 300 meters. At the time of the accident, the runway surface was affected by recent heavy rainfall, and the area immediately beyond the runway end contained unmaintained, tall grass reaching heights of up to 2 meters.
Meteorological data indicated light drizzle and variable wind conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation also noted that a field path at the start of the apron created a depression in the terrain profile, which contributed to the pilot's difficulty in estimating the required takeoff distance.
Findings
- The pilot failed to abort the takeoff despite reaching a low altitude and realizing the takeoff point was insufficient.
- The pilot misjudged the takeoff performance requirements, specifically the point of no return, due to an incorrect estimation of airspeed and the effects of variable wind.
- The airfield was unsuitable for the takeoff of this aircraft type under the prevailing conditions, primarily due to the insufficient runway length and the presence of tall grass.
- Recent heavy rains had contaminated the surface and affected the takeoff roll.
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage, including damage to the left wing, rudder, nose gear, propeller, and pitot tube.