What happened
On July 9, 2023, at 16:45 UTC, a pilot operating an Orličan VSO-10 glider, registration OM-8509, performed an aero-tow takeoff from Žilina Airport (LZZI) for a local thermal flight. After releasing from the tow cable at approximately 650 meters, the pilot encountered weak and broken thermals. While attempting to fly toward cumuliform clouds near Hôrky to find better lift, the aircraft began losing altitude due to flying into the wind. Realizing that the remaining altitude was insufficient to return to LZZI, the pilot decided to perform a forced landing in a field used by model aircraft pilots.
The pilot selected a mown area for the landing, intending to touchdown near a cornfield. However, during the approach, the pilot discovered an electric fence surrounding the cornfield. Attempting to fly over the fence necessitated a longer landing roll, which exhausted the available runway length. Consequently, the glider struck obstacles at the end of the landing strip: the right wing hit a concrete ring, and the left wing collided with a metal container.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the meteorological conditions, and the aircraft's condition. The board confirmed that the pilot held valid qualifications and was not under the influence of alcohol. The aircraft was found to be airworthy and well-maintained, with its most recent 500-hour inspection completed in May 2023. The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding the landing site and the unexpected presence of the electric fence.
Findings
- The pilot was unable to return to the departure aerodrome due to a lack of sufficient lift.
- The pilot identified a suitable landing area but failed to account for an electric fence surrounding the adjacent crop until late in the landing sequence.
- The need to clear the fence increased the required landing distance beyond what was available.
- The glider sustained extensive damage, including structural failure to the fuselage, wing deformation, and damage to the tail section.