What happened
On May 3, 2016, a PIK-20 D glider departed from the Klix glider airfield via aero-tow to participate in a flight competition. After approximately three hours and 20 minutes of flight, the pilot began the approach to the airfield. GPS data and radio communications indicated that the pilot intended to fly over the competition finish line and then perform a shortened circuit for landing.
At approximately 16:33, the aircraft flew over the finish line at an altitude of roughly 10 meters with a ground speed of approximately 180 km/h. Witnesses observed that the landing gear was retracted during this overflight. Shortly after passing the finish line, the aircraft suddenly transitioned from level flight into a steep descent, impacting the ground with the cockpit area and the leading edges of both wings. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and the pilot sustained fatal injuries at the scene.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight path using GPS data, analyzed the wreckage, and reviewed witness statements. Investigators confirmed that the aircraft's mechanical condition was sound, with no technical defects found. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while the pilot was a licensed flyer with significant total hours, they had only 19 hours of experience on this specific model.
Technical analysis of the wreckage showed that the flaperon lever was set between +4° and +8°. The investigation also focused on the configuration changes required for landing, specifically the need to extend the landing gear and adjust flaperons, which requires the pilot to move their control hand from the right to the left side of the stick to operate the gear lever.