Z 526 AFS-V Overruns Runway at Slaný After Glider Release

Casualties unknown • LKSN, CZ

A Z 526 AFS-V aircraft veered off the runway and struck a roadside ditch during a landing at Slaný airport following an aero-tow operation.

What happened

On October 26, 2013, a Z 526 AFS-V, registration OK-ERE, was performing an aero-tow of an L 23 glider at Slaný Airport (LKSN). After releasing the glider at an altitude of approximately 1,050 meters, the pilot transitioned into a descent for landing on runway 07L.

During the final approach, the pilot maintained an airspeed of approximately 130 km/h. The aircraft touched down significantly further down the runway, near the level of the hangars, roughly 380 meters past the threshold. Due to the landing position and the presence of a tailwind component of approximately 7–8 knots, the aircraft failed to stop within the remaining runway length.

As the aircraft exited the runway onto a grassy area with taller vegetation, the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft to avoid an upcoming roadside ditch. However, the landing gear lost directional stability on the damp, grassy surface, causing the aircraft to skid laterally. The aircraft eventually struck the edge of a roadside ditch, resulting in damage to the left landing gear and propeller.

Probable cause

The probable cause of the accident was an **incorrect calculation during the final approach** while facing a tailwind, which resulted in an excessively long landing. A contributing factor was the condition of the runway surface, which likely provided reduced braking effectiveness due to moisture.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-10-26 Z 526 AF S-V accident near LKSN, CZ?

A Z 526 AFS-V aircraft veered off the runway and struck a roadside ditch during a landing at Slaný airport following an aero-tow operation.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-10-26 involved a Z 526 AF S-V, registration OK-ERE, at LKSN, CZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The probable cause of the accident was an **incorrect calculation during the final approach** while facing a tailwind, which resulted in an excessively long landing. A contributing factor was the condition of the runway surface, which likely provided reduced braking effectiveness due to moisture.

Investigation report by the Czech Air Accidents Investigation Institute (UZPLN). Original record: https://uzpln.gov.cz/incident/338. 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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