What happened
On August 7, 2021, a pilot participating in the 20th HOP 2021 historical glider competition was conducting a competitive flight task. While flying the route between several waypoints, the pilot found that the meteorological conditions had deteriorated, and the available thermal lift had ceased to be effective. As the glider began to lose altitude over hilly terrain, the pilot was forced to seek an emergency landing site.
While searching for a suitable area, the pilot identified a field but was unable to use it due to the presence of high-voltage power lines. This necessitated a change in plans, leading the pilot to select a meadow located behind the power lines. This meadow was situated on a steep slope with an incline of approximately 12%. The pilot attempted to land into the slope against a headwind. However, during the final approach, the pilot was unable to properly flare the aircraft, resulting in the lower part of the fuselage striking the ground with significant force.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the flight data recorded by the pilot's GPS device, the aircraft's condition, and the pilot's actions. The investigation established that the aircraft, a VT 116 Orlík II with registration OK-6907, was in a serviceable condition with no mechanical failures contributing to the accident. The pilot was fully qualified and medically fit, with extensive experience in flying this specific type of glider.
Data analysis showed that at the time of the impact, the aircraft was flying at an indicated airspeed of approximately 85 km/h, which was at the lower limit of the normal approach speed range specified in the flight manual. The investigation also noted that the pilot's decision-making was constrained by the low altitude and the presence of electrical infrastructure, which limited the available landing options.