Incident Overview
On 20 March 2016, at 11:27 UTC, a glider L 13A Blaník, registered OK-2718, operated by Slezský Aeroklub Zábřeh, was conducting training circuits at Zábřeh Airport (LKZA). The pilot, aged 73, held a valid glider pilot license and FI (G) rating, with 3023 total hours on gliders. During the second flight, the landing approach was short, and the glider landed on terrain north of the runway. During flare, the rear part of the glider contacted a fixed obstacle, resulting in damage.
Sequence of Events
The pilot had completed one uneventful circuit flight earlier. He took off at 11:22 using a winch from runway 28L. After release, he flew the circuit. While entering the fourth turn, he opened the flaps. According to the pilot's statement, he felt that the wind had increased and that he would be short. He decided to deviate right to a grassy strip. The descent rate increased more than expected, and he landed just beyond the edge of that area. During landing, he felt a jolt at the tail skid. After exiting, he discovered damage and also noted that the air brakes were open, which he had not intended.
Damage and Obstacle
The glider struck pieces of reinforced concrete panels, forming a barrier about 60 cm high, located approximately 318 m east of the runway 28L threshold markers, adjacent to an access road. Blue paint smears were visible on one panel. The impact caused mechanical damage to the right rear side of the fuselage at the tail skid attachment and deformation of the left horizontal stabilizer.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that while manipulating the flap lever before the fourth turn, the pilot likely accidentally touched the air brake lever, causing it to unlock and partially deploy. This increased the rate of descent, which the pilot misinterpreted as a strengthening headwind. After completing the fourth turn, he did not check the air brake position. The increased descent made it impossible to reach the intended runway, forcing a landing in the field. The glider was repaired at an approved maintenance organization.
Probable Cause
The cause of the accident was a forced change in the landing approach due to unintentional unlocking of the air brakes while handling the flaps before the fourth turn. The air brakes partially opened during the fourth turn, increasing the glider's descent, which the pilot incorrectly assessed as a strengthening headwind.