2008 Standard Cirrus glider accident at Jindřichův Hradec

Overview and Flight Details On 7 June 2008, a Standard Cirrus glider with registration D-0779 was involved in an accident at Jindřichův Hradec Airport (LKJH). The aircraft was operated by a private individual and was towed from Hosín Airport (LKHS) to LKJH. After releasing from the tow plane, the pilot performed a low pass over the airfield in the direction of runway 07. The glider then deviated slightly to the right and entered a left turn, with the intention of landing on runway 25L. During the turn, the glider's speed was below the safe turning speed, leading to a stall. Due to the low altitude, the pilot was unable to execute an effective maneuver to regain safe speed. The glider's left wing contacted the ground, and the aircraft came to a stop approximately 300 meters south of the runway 25L threshold. The pilot, a 33-year-old with 340 hours of glider experience and 60 hours on the Standard Cirrus type, was not injured. The aircraft sustained damage to the tail section, stabilizer attachment, cockpit, and landing gear. The investigation was conducted by the Institute for Professional Investigation of Causes of Aircraft Accidents (ÚZPLN) in accordance with regulation L 13. The final report was issued on 4 August 2008. The accident was determined to be caused by the pilot's incorrect decision to perform a low pass and turn at a low altitude with a speed below the safe limit for completing the turn before landing. The subsequent stall and ground contact could not be averted due to the low altitude. No safety recommendations were issued.