Introduction
On 13 June 2022, a Zlin Z-326 Tréner aircraft, registration HA-TRT, was involved in a serious incident at Szeged Airport (LHUD). The occurrence happened at 14:08 local time. According to the final report from Hungary's Transportation Safety Bureau (TSB), the pilot, described as highly experienced, intended to perform the last flight of his flying career. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and one passenger. The airport's Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) reported the event to the TSB call center at 14:24 on the same day.
Flight History
The pilot arrived at Szeged Airport to complete a flight. After a pre-flight check, the occupants boarded the aircraft and taxied onto the grass runway 34. The pilot recalled beginning the takeoff roll approximately 300 to 350 meters from the threshold, in moderately strong, gusty north-westerly wind, after completing the pre-takeoff checklist. Surveillance camera evidence showed the aircraft accelerated for 15 seconds before lifting off. It climbed for 3 to 4 seconds, reaching an estimated peak height of 4 to 6 meters above ground level. At that point, the aircraft began to descend. After approximately 5 seconds, it collided with the ground at a shallow angle, impacting with the propeller, belly, and partially retracted landing gear. The aircraft skidded for about 60 meters before turning approximately 90 degrees left relative to the runway 34 axis and coming to rest at coordinates N46°14'58" E020°05'34".
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained substantial damage. No injuries occurred; the TSB report explicitly states that no one got injured.
Investigation Findings
The Investigation Committee (IC) determined that the direct cause of the serious incident was the pilot's loss of situational awareness at a critically low altitude during takeoff. Additionally, the IC concluded, based on its documents, that the aircraft was not serviceable at the time of the incident. The IC found no grounds to issue any safety recommendations.
Conclusion
The TSB published its final report, a summary of which is available in English. The investigation was conducted under European Union regulations and Hungarian law. The report notes the aircraft type (Zlin Z-326), registration (HA-TRT), and that the incident occurred on a grass strip at Szeged Airport.