Glider wing strike during low pass at Jindřichův Hradec

Casualties unknown • LKJH, CZ

A Standard Cirrus glider sustained significant structural damage after the pilot lost airspeed during a low-altitude turn at Jindřichův Hradec airport.

What happened

On June 7, 2008, a Standard Cirrus glider, registration D-0779, was performing a towed flight from Hosín airport to Jindřichův Hradec (LKJH). After releasing from the tow plane, the pilot executed a low pass over the airfield along runway 07. Following this pass, the pilot drifted slightly to the right and initiated a left turn to prepare for an approach to runway 25L.

During this maneuver, the aircraft's airspeed dropped below the minimum safe speed required for the turn. This resulted in a slip, causing the left wing to strike the ground. The impact occurred approximately 300 meters south of the threshold of runway 2lar. The pilot was uninjured in the accident.

The investigation

The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's condition, the pilot's qualifications, and the environmental conditions at the time of the occurrence. The investigation confirmed that the Standard Cirrus was airworthy, with valid registration, insurance, and maintenance release. The pilot held a valid glider rating and a Class 2 medical certificate.

Meteorological data from the airfield's AFIS indicated favorable conditions, with a light wind of 6 knots and scattered clouds at 1,200 meters. The runway surface was dry. Physical inspection of the aircraft revealed significant damage, including the tearing of the tail section approximately one meter from the keel leading edge, the detachment of the stabilizer attachment point, and damage to the cockpit and landing gear.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the pilot's decision to perform a low-altitude turn at a speed insufficient to maintain safe flight parameters, leading to a wing strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-06-07 Standard Cirrus accident near LKJH, CZ?

A Standard Cirrus glider sustained significant structural damage after the pilot lost airspeed during a low-altitude turn at Jindřichův Hradec airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-06-07 involved a Standard Cirrus, at LKJH, CZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the pilot's decision to perform a low-altitude turn at a speed insufficient to maintain safe flight parameters, leading to a wing strike.

Investigation report by the Czech Air Accidents Investigation Institute (UZPLN). Original record: https://uzpln.gov.cz/incident/157. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Ustav pro odborne zjistovani pricin leteckych nehod (UZPLN), Czech Republic.

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