Summary
On 22 June 2022, at approximately 11:35 local time, a Cessna 150M, registration 9A-DMM, operated by ECOS pilot school - aircharter d.o.o., struck a hay bale during final approach to Lučko Aerodrome (LDZL). The aircraft sustained partial damage to the tail section, and the sole occupant, the pilot, was not injured.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The accident aircraft was a Cessna 150M, serial number 15079061, with a maximum takeoff mass of 730 kg. It was powered by a Continental O-200-A engine and a McCauley fixed-pitch propeller. The pilot held a valid PPL(A) license with SEP(A) rating, issued in 2019.
Sequence of Events
The pilot departed from Lučko for a local flight in the aerodrome zone. During the final approach for landing, the aircraft's horizontal stabilizer struck a hay bale located on the grassy area near the runway. The bale was one of several that had been placed after mowing operations, which were ongoing at the time. A NOTAM had been issued advising pilots of the work and caution.
The pilot stated that high grass obscured the runway markings, causing confusion and requiring directional corrections during the final approach, which ultimately led to the impact.
Meteorological and Aerodrome Information
Lučko Aerodrome, situated about 10 km southwest of Zagreb, is used for VFR traffic by civil and military operators. It has two grass runways (10L/R and 28L/R). The mowing had been completed, and hay bales were stored off the runways but within the grassy areas. Weather conditions were not a factor in the accident.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the accident was caused by an unstable final approach. The pilot's difficulty in visually identifying the runway due to tall grass contributed to the destabilized approach. The aircraft's tail struck a hay bale, resulting in partial damage.
Cause
The probable cause of the accident was an unstable final approach.