What happened
On March 9, 2013, a Z-37A agricultural aircraft, registration OK-HJU, crashed into the treetops of a forested area near the Kusá Hora ridge, north of Srbce. The aircraft was performing aerial application tasks, specifically spreading fertilizer, near the Dobrkov working area.
Following two successful flights earlier in the afternoon, the pilot commenced a third flight at approximately 13:01 UTC. Despite deteriorating meteorological conditions, including low visibility due to mist and drizzle, the pilot continued toward the target field on the ridge. During the flight, the aircraft entered conditions below Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying at a low altitude in the mist before hearing the sound of breaking trees. The impact with the treetops caused the immediate destruction of the aircraft, tearing away portions of the wings and tail surfaces, and leading to a subsequent impact with the ground. The pilot, a 54-year-old experienced aviator, sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's flight history, and meteorological data. The investigation established that the aircraft was airworthy and within its maximum takeoff weight at the time of the accident. Investigators also reviewed witness statements from nearby pilots and residents, as well as the pilot's flight logs. Toxicological analysis was performed on the pilot following the accident.
Findings
- The pilot decided to continue agricultural operations despite clear signs of deteriorating weather and the risk of flying into Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).
- The aircraft entered a low-visibility environment characterized by mist and drizzle, which significantly reduced the pilot's ability to maintain visual contact with the terrain.
- The pilot's blood alcohol concentration was 1.12 g/kg, a level that rendered safe piloting impossible.
- The pilot likely overestimated his ability to navigate the terrain and may have reacted too late to the loss of visual references.
- The pilot was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the impact, which contributed to the severity of the injuries as the body was thrown from the cockpit during the structural failure.