What happened
On June 18, 2017, a hang glider launch at the SLZ Hradčany airfield resulted in a fatal accident. The pilot was performing a winch launch, a method where a cable pulls the glider from a stationary position. During the initial phase of the takeoff, after the glider had detached from the winch cable, it began to veer to the right, flying against the wind.
In an attempt to correct the flight path, the pilot applied left bank. However, due to low airspeed, the glider entered an unstable state. As the glider reached an altitude of approximately 30 meters, it was banking at an angle of about 40 degrees and had drifted nearly 90 degrees away from the direction of the launch vehicle. Observing this dangerous deviation, the winch operator reduced tension and cut the tow cable to prevent further loss of control. Following the release, the Laminar Zero 9-13.2 fell heavily onto the left side of its wing, striking the concrete runway. The impact caused the pilot to strike the ground with significant force, resulting in fatal injuries.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the flight sequence, the technical condition of the equipment, and the actions of the ground crew. The investigation confirmed that the winch operator and the vehicle driver were properly qualified and that the launch procedure followed established protocols. The takeoff vehicle and the winch were both in good technical condition and had valid certificates of airworthiness.
Investigators also reviewed the meteorological conditions, noting that while the weather was generally suitable for flight, there was light mechanical turbulence near the ground. The investigation also analyzed the aircraft's structural damage, finding that the damage to the airframe, including the broken spreader bar and torn fabric, was entirely consistent with the high-angle impact with the concrete runway. Medical examinations ruled out any pre-existing health issues or the influence of alcohol on the pilot.