What happened
On April 7, 2006, at approximately 18:30 local time, a motorized hang glider, registration OK-DZF 05, was performing a flight pattern at the Mělník-Hořín airfield. After departing from runway 27, the pilot executed a left turn into a southern circuit at an altitude of 50–100 meters. The aircraft proceeded through subsequent turns, gradually descending to altitudes between 30 and 20 meters.
While flying over runway 09, the pilot initiated a left turn of approximately 90 degrees. At an altitude of roughly 8 meters, the ATLET ultralight struck the side of a hangar at a perpendicular angle. The impact, occurring with the right wing leading edge and the landing gear structure, caused the aircraft to flip onto the hangar roof. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the collision.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's condition, witness statements, and the pilot's credentials. Technical inspections of the wreckage revealed that the engine had been torn from its mounts and the propeller blades were sheared off, consistent with a high-energy impact. Witnesses reported that the engine sounded normal prior to the crash and that the aircraft showed no visible signs of mechanical failure during its final approach.
Investigators also reviewed a technical inspection conducted by the LAA ČR on April 4, 2006. This inspection had identified a significant issue: the control bar was positioned approximately 15 cm too far forward compared to standard configuration. The inspector had explicitly instructed the owner not to fly the aircraft in this state and had withheld the technical certificate until the adjustment was made. Despite this, the pilot conducted the flight on April 7.
Findings
- The pilot did not hold a valid LAA ČR license for this type of aircraft, nor was there evidence of a valid medical certificate.
- The aircraft, OK-DZF 05, did not possess a valid technical certificate.
- The improper position of the control bar likely restricted the aircraft's maneuverability, potentially causing the pilot to inadvertently increase speed and enter a descent during the turn.
- There were no signs of engine failure or pilot impairment due to alcohol or drugs.