Flight Details
On 28 June 2023, a Pilatus PC-6/B2-H4, registration EC-LQH, operated by JUMP-TANDEM s.r.o., was conducting a parachute jump flight from Příbram Airport (LKPM). The pilot, who had completed type-rating training on the aircraft from 12 to 14 June 2023 and two monitoring flights, departed at 11:12 UTC from runway 24. Nine parachutists exited at flight level 140 on a heading of 240°. After the jump, the pilot initiated a steep descent and reported final approach for runway 24R at 11:33:20.
Landing Sequence
The pilot performed a crosswind landing on the grass strip before runway 24R. According to video footage from LKPM, approximately five seconds after touchdown, the aircraft began to veer right during the landing roll. About three seconds later, the aircraft tilted sharply to the left while the right main wheel lifted. The static balance weight, attached underneath the outer left aileron, contacted the grass surface. This caused the outer left aileron to be torn from its hinges, damaging the left wing. The aircraft came to a stop on the right edge of the grass strip.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that before takeoff, he moved the tailwheel lock lever from the "FREE" position forward to the "LOCK" position. However, the tailwheel was not aligned with the aircraft longitudinal axis, so physical locking did not occur. The locking would have been verified by pressing the rudder pedals, but the pilot did not correctly sense the loss of spring resistance. Consequently, the tailwheel remained unlocked during takeoff. The pilot also noted that the right parachute door could not be closed during descent, which may have contributed to the veering. There is no cockpit indication of tailwheel lock status.
Damage
The left wing sustained damage from the separation of the outer left aileron. No other injuries or damage were reported. The pilot was not injured.
Investigation and Cause
The investigation by the Czech Accident Investigation Institute (ÚZPLN) determined the cause of the accident: the tailwheel was not locked before takeoff. The investigation did not issue safety recommendations.