What happened
On April 28, 2022, at approximately 08:45 UTC, a collision occurred on the apron of Zbraslavice Aerodrome (LKZB) involving two aircraft. The incident took place during the AZ CUP 2022 glider competition, where several aircraft were positioned near the threshold of Runway 33.
The pilot of a Zlín Z 226 MS, registration OK-KMP, had landed on Runway 15 at 08:43 UTC. Following the landing, the pilot taxied toward the designated parking area for glider tug aircraft. While taxiing, the pilot failed to observe a stationary Zlín Z 526 AFS-V, registration OK-CXB, which was parked approximately five meters behind another aircraft in the parking area.
The moving aircraft struck the parked plane with its propeller, forward fuselage, and right wing. The impact caused the right wing of the OK-KMP to suffer a torn leading edge and structural damage to a wing rib, while the propeller shaft was slightly bent. The stationary OK-CXB sustained damage to its left fuel tank, which resulted in a small amount of fuel leakage onto the ground. There were no injuries to the pilot or any other persons.
The investigation
An investigation by the ÚZPLN established that the pilot of the OK-KMP was fully qualified, medically fit, and familiar with the aerodrome procedures. The aircraft was in a valid state of airworthiness and all documentation was in order.
The investigation examined the visibility conditions and the aircraft's configuration. It was noted that the pilot was operating the Zlín Z 226 MS from the rear cockpit, a position that significantly restricts forward visibility due to the long nose of the aircraft. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with clear skies and no significant sunlight glare contributing to the event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to see the parked aircraft while taxiing.
- The pilot's view of the area directly in front of the aircraft was significantly obstructed by the aircraft's long nose while seated in the rear cockpit.
- The aircraft was taxiing in accordance with aerodrome rules, but the presence of multiple aircraft in the parking area contributed to the difficulty in maintaining situational awareness.