What happened
On July 26, 2025, a pilot was conducting a series of recreational VFR flights at Nové Město airport (LKNM) in a Skylane v.5 ultralight aircraft, registration OK-VUO 01. Following a series of local flights involving passenger rotations, the aircraft landed and taxied to a stop near the control tower.
Although the engine was still running at idle, the pilot had instructed the passenger to remain buckled and not to unfasten their seatbelt until the propeller had stopped. During the taxi, the pilot became focused on communicating with another individual approaching the aircraft from the left side. Simultaneously, the passenger unfastened their seatbelt, opened the right-side cabin door, and exited the aircraft. As the passenger moved forward, they came into contact with the rotating propeller blades. The impact caused severe head and arm injuries. Despite immediate first aid and emergency medical transport via helicopter, the passenger passed away in the hospital two days later.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the pilot's statements, witness accounts, aircraft technical documentation, and airport CCTV footage. The investigation established that the pilot had provided safety briefings to all passengers regarding movement near the aircraft and the risks of the propeller. The investigation also reviewed the medical findings, which confirmed that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head resulting from the propeller strike.
Findings
- The pilot was properly qualified and had provided safety instructions to the passenger prior to the flight and during the passenger exchange.
- The pilot's attention was momentarily diverted to a person approaching the aircraft from the left, which the pilot perceived as a potential risk.
- The passenger's decision to unfasten the seatbelt and exit the aircraft while the engine was running was the direct cause of the contact with the propeller.
- The propeller blades sustained damage, with the tips being sheared off during the impact.
- The aircraft was in a valid technical condition, and no mechanical failures were identified.