Accident Overview
On 28 June 2020 at approximately 19:25 local time, a Rallye 180 TS aircraft, registered 9A-DKK, was conducting a landing at Sinj Airport (LDSS) after towing a glider. During the final approach to runway 08, the pilot executed a sudden maneuver to avoid two persons running across the runway. The aircraft, still equipped with the glider tow rope attached to the fuselage, struck one person with the rope, causing her to fall and sustain serious injuries. The person was not entangled, and the aircraft continued its landing safely without damage.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft was a single-engine, low-wing, metal-construction Rallye 180 TS (serial number 3320) manufactured by EADS Socata. It was equipped with a Lycoming O-360-A3A engine and a Sensenich 76EM8054 fixed-pitch propeller. The operator and owner was Aeroklub Sinj. The aircraft had a maximum takeoff weight of 950 kg and was airworthy at the time of the accident. The flight involved glider towing for training purposes.
Injuries and Damage
One person on the ground was seriously injured. The aircraft sustained no damage. No other injuries were reported. The pilot was unharmed.
Airport and Meteorological Conditions
Sinj Airport is a grass strip located east of Sinj, at an elevation of 298 m. The runway is 1026 m long and 61 m wide, oriented 08/26. The airport lacks a perimeter fence, and despite warning signs, unauthorized access by persons and animals is common. Meteorological conditions were not a factor in the accident.
Cause Determination
The investigation determined that the accident resulted from unauthorized crossing of persons over the runway. The airport operator was issued a safety recommendation to the City of Sinj (owner) and Aeroklub Sinj (operator).