What happened
On May 5, 2018, a single-seat Pilatus B4-PC 11AF, registered as HB-3051, was performing a private VFR flight at Bad Ragaz Aerodrome (LSZE). The pilot intended to execute a long landing on runway 30 to position the aircraft near a maintenance hangar at the end of the runway.
During the final approach, the pilot encountered turbulent conditions, necessitating frequent control corrections. The approach speed was approximately 110 km/h, which was significantly higher than the recommended 85 km/h for windless conditions. After initiating the flare, the glider briefly climbed before touching down on the runway. During the subsequent landing roll, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to veer left toward an adjacent wheat field. This maneuver led to the left wing striking the rear of a car parked outside the landing area. The aircraft then rotated left and came to a halt in the field.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the flight parameters during the final approach and the sequence of events during the landing roll. Investigators examined the pilot's reported need for heavy control inputs due to turbulence and the discrepancy between the actual approach speed and the recommended manual speeds. The investigation also assessed the impact of the aircraft's path on the parked vehicle and the resulting damage to both the glider and the car.
Findings
- The approach speed of 110 km/h was notably higher than the standard recommended speed of 85 km/h.
- Turbulence during the final approach required the pilot to perform significant control corrections.
- The pilot lost steering control during the rollout, causing the aircraft to deviate from the runway centerline.
- The collision resulted in heavy damage to the left wing of the glider and minor damage to the rear of the parked automobile.