What happened
On April 17, 2009, a Cessna 152, registration OK-LEV, was prepared for a navigational flight from Letňany Airport (LKLT) to Chotěboř (LKCT) with a passenger on board. Before departure, the pilot contacted the Kbely ATC tower for weather information, as the local AFIS service had not yet commenced operations for the day. The pilot proceeded to perform engine checks and takeoff preparations on runway 05R.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft failed to become airborne after traversing approximately two-thirds of the runway length. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff; however, the aircraft could not be brought to a halt within the runway boundaries. While attempting to stop, the aircraft veered into the runway threshold area. The nose gear struck an uneven patch of terrain, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and flip over the propeller onto its back. Both the pilot and the passenger evacuated the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's experience, and the environmental factors at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and flight qualifications, including a PPL(A) and SEP land rating. The aircraft's takeoff weight was calculated to be 2.0 kg below the maximum allowable limit, and the aircraft was within its airworthiness inspection period.
Investigators also analyzed the runway conditions and meteorological data. The runway surface consisted of grass and was wet due to recent rainfall. Wind conditions were recorded at approximately 9–10 knots from 230°, which was within the allowable limits for the aircraft type. Calculations performed during the investigation determined that, given the aircraft's speed and the runway conditions, the pilot should have been able to stop the aircraft 21.3 meters beyond the runway threshold had the decision to abort been made earlier.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage, including a broken wing strut, a deformed engine mount, and a broken keel.
- The pilot's late decision to abort the takeoff prevented the aircraft from stopping safely on the runway.
- The aircraft overturned due to the nose gear striking uneven ground during the aborted rollout.
- Meteorological and technical conditions were within safe operating limits for the flight.