What happened
On June 29, 2004, a PZL M18A Dromader, registration OK-TGR, was participating in a coordinated training exercise with the Semily Fire Rescue Service near Lomnice nad Popelkou. The mission involved demonstrating aerial firefighting techniques and instructing firefighters on water loading procedures.
Following the demonstration, the pilot decided not to land at the unverified landing strip due to its insufficient width, opting instead to return to Mnichovo Hradiště. After loading approximately 1,300 liters of water, the pilot attempted a takeoff roll in the 320° direction. During the initial takeoff attempt, the aircraft veered to the left after traveling approximately 30 meters, prompting the pilot to abort the run and return to the starting position. After confirming the brakes were functional, the pilot initiated a second takeoff attempt.
During this second roll, once the tailwheel left the ground, the aircraft began to veer left and lean heavily to the left side after traveling roughly 150–170 meters. Unable to maintain the centerline, the pilot reduced power to idle. At a speed of approximately 60–70 km/h, the aircraft struck tall beet crops on the left side, causing the aircraft to trip and overturn onto its back, damaging the propeller and left wing.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation established that the takeoff area, while cleared of tall vegetation, did not meet the required dimensions or safety standards for the aircraft type. The strip width was only 20.5 meters, and the lateral slope of the surface was 4.6%, exceeding the maximum allowable 4% slope specified in the aircraft's manual. Furthermore, the investigation found that the left landing gear strut had been compressed 8.5 cm more than the right strut prior to takeoff.
Findings
- The pilot made the incorrect decision to attempt takeoff on an unsuitable runway that did not meet the width or slope requirements of the aircraft'type manual.
- The pilot attempted a second takeoff without investigating the cause of the initial directional deviation.
- The left landing gear strut was visibly compressed prior to the takeoff attempt.
- Obstacles in the form of tall beet and barley crops were located immediately adjacent to the takeoff path.
- The lateral slope of the utilized strip exceeded the manufacturer's limitations.