What happened
On July 8, 2021, an L 13 SEH Vivat, registration OK-813 and 30, was conducting a training flight near Šumperk Airport (LKSU) with a pilot and an instructor on board. During the approach and descent for landing on runway 36, the aircraft was traveling at a higher speed than usual.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the instructor warned the pilot that the landing roll would be long and advised the use of aerodynamic brakes. In response to this warning, the pilot immediately and fully deployed the air brakes. This action caused the motor glider to suddenly stall from an altitude of approximately 2 to 3 meters. The aircraft struck the runway surface with significant force, resulting in the main landing gear breaking away at the shock absorber mounts, damage to the propeller, and a forced engine shutdown. The aircraft came to a stop approximately 392 meters from the runway threshold.
No injuries were reported among the crew, and there were no leaks of operational fluids. The impact also caused damage to the runway surface, specifically to the reinforced paving tiles for a length of approximately 5 meters.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the statements of the crew and a witness, as well as reports from the Czech Police. The investigation confirmed that both pilots were properly qualified, medically fit, and experienced on this aircraft type. The aircraft was in good technical condition and airworthy up to the moment of the accident. Meteorological conditions at the time were suitable for flight and were not a contributing factor. The investigation also verified that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permitted limits.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's inappropriate reaction to the instructor's warning regarding the deployment of air brakes.
- The pilot's sudden and full deployment of the aerodynamic brakes led to the immediate stall and subsequent hard impact with the ground.