What happened
On August 28, 2016, a pilot was conducting a recreational flight in a Blaze GT-21 motor powered paraglider (PPG) starting from Jihlava airport (LKJI). While flying with a group of other paragliders, weather conditions deteriorated. As the group moved northeast, wind speeds increased to approximately 8 m/s from 150°, creating moderate turbulence. While other pilots chose to return to the airfield, the pilot of the OK-TGL 04 continued eastward and began descending, likely seeking calmer air closer to the ground.
During this descent, the pilot's trim settings were found to be fully released. Evidence suggests the pilot may not have been holding the controls during this phase of flight. The aircraft subsequently entered an unstable state, leading to a high-energy, asymmetrical collapse of the wing's leading edge. The aircraft struck the ground near the village of Rybné, resulting in the fatal death of the pilot.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft, the meteorological conditions, and the pilot's actions. Technical inspections of the Blaze GT-21 by the manufacturer confirmed the aircraft was in airworthy condition with no mechanical defects contributing to the accident. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's medical and flight qualifications, finding them valid and noting that toxicology reports showed no presence of alcohol or prohibited substances. Meteorological data from the period confirmed that while conditions were not extreme, they were at the limit for safe flight, particularly regarding wind-induced turbulence near terrain.
Findings
- The pilot was flying at an insufficient altitude to recover from a wing collapse.
- The aircraft was flying in a configuration unsuitable for turbulent air, specifically with the trims fully released.
- The pilot likely entered a wake rotor or unstable air mass, leading to a loss of control.
- The pilot failed to maintain control of the untrimmed wing after encountering unstable air.