What happened
On June 16, 2012, at Benešov airport, a Z-226 MS aircraft, registration OK-KMO, was performing a glider tow operation. The pilot had successfully towed an L-23 glider to an altitude of approximately 300 meters AGL. Following the release of the glider, the pilot intended to perform a descending turn to land on runway 09.
During the maneuver, the pilot observed another aircraft performing a takeoff from runway 24. To maintain separation and avoid interfering with the other aircraft, the pilot decided to execute a left holding turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft's airspeed decreased significantly. After approximately 270 degrees of turning, the aircraft entered a left spin. Witnesses observed the aircraft complete a quarter-turn of the spin before the rotation stopped, at which point the aircraft continued in a steep, nose-down dive. The aircraft struck the ground at a high angle, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and serious injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the pilot's experience, the aircraft's technical condition, and the sequence of events. The pilot was a qualified commercial pilot but had very limited experience flying the Z-226 MS, having only recently obtained his glider towing qualification. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and that the engine and control systems were fully functional prior to the accident. Technical analysis of the wreckage showed that all damage was consistent with the impact with the ground. The investigation also reviewed radio communications and meteorological data, which indicated favorable flying conditions at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot's primary focus was diverted from aircraft control to monitoring the traffic on runway 24.
- The pilot likely failed to increase engine power during the holding turn, leading to a critical loss of airspeed.
- Loss of control during a horizontal holding maneuver while simultaneously focusing on an aircraft taking off in the opposite direction was the primary cause.
- The pilot's limited experience with the Z-226 MS and specifically with recovering from spins on this type contributed to the accident.
- The decision to perform a holding maneuver in the fourth turn of runway 09 complicated the traffic situation for both the towing aircraft and other glider operations at the airfield.