What happened
On July 27, 2014, a Z 126 T aircraft, registration OK-LLH, was performing a circuit flight at Plasy Airport (LKPS) with a two-person crew consisting of a pilot and an instructor. Following a wave-off landing, the pilot attempted a subsequent takeoff from runway 21. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft failed to reach the necessary speed for rotation and climb. The aircraft experienced several bounces on the main landing gear, likely due to runway irregularities.
As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, it failed to achieve sufficient airspeed to clear the rising terrain and obstacles located beyond the threshold. The instructor intervened to maintain control, but the aircraft could no later be stopped on the remaining runway length. To avoid a more serious impact with trees or terrain, the instructor steered the aircraft toward an adjacent meadow. The aircraft impacted the ground on its left landing gear and wing, causing the engine to be torn from its mounts, the propeller to shatter, and the right landing gear to break away.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the crew's qualifications, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation included a detailed inspection of the WM 4-III engine, which showed no signs of mechanical failure prior to the impact. The investigation also reviewed witness statements from individuals who observed the takeoff attempt and the subsequent forced landing.
Findings
- The pilot failed to abort the takeoff in a timely manner when it became evident that the aircraft was not gaining sufficient speed.
- The aircraft's takeoff performance was likely hindered by a combination of high ambient temperatures and a tailwind/crosswind component.
- The aircraft's takeoff roll was shortened because the preceding landing had been longer than usual, leaving less runway available for the subsequent departure.
- The instructor's intervention, while intended to maintain control, occurred too late to prevent the necessity of an off-runway landing.
- The aircraft sustained heavy damage, including a broken wing, a displaced engine, and a destroyed propeller, all resulting from the impact with the terrain.