What happened
On February 14, 2020, a Diamond DV20 Katana, registration SX-KVA, was performing a solo training flight at Kozani State Airport (LGKZ). During the landing phase on Runway 32, the student pilot lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft veered off the asphalt runway and came to rest on soft ground to the right of the paved surface.
The student pilot, who had accumulated 56 total flight hours at the time of the incident, exited the aircraft without any injuries. The aircraft sustained minor damage, specifically a 22 mm crack on the leading edge of the left wing tip caused by contact with the ground. There was no evidence of mechanical malfunction or engine failure prior to the excursion.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the loss of control during the landing sequence. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed that the aircraft had been inspected and released to service on January 30, 2020, following the manufacturer's prescribed schedule. Meteorological data indicated favorable weather conditions at the time of the incident, with calm winds and good visibility.
Due to the absence of flight data recorders (FDR) or cockpit voice recorders (CVR) on this aircraft type, the specific aerodynamic sequence leading to the loss of control could not be analyzed through telemetry. However, the board examined the pilot's experience level and the operational environment at the aerodrome.
Findings
- The aircraft was in a satisfactory mechanical condition with no technical malfunctions reported.
- Weather conditions were favorable and did not contribute to the incident.
- There were no air traffic conflicts or other aircraft present that could have interfered with the landing.
- The loss of control was attributed to the limited flying experience of the student pilot.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the following recommendations were made to the training organization:
- Integration of ground school lessons regarding past accidents and incidents into the training syllabus to enhance situational awareness.
- Implementation of strict stabilization criteria during final approach, tailored to the student's experience level, emphasizing that a go-around should always be considered an option.