What happened
On June 25, 2017, a Piper L-4 Grasshopper, registration OM-M038, crashed shortly after takeoff from Hodkovice nad Mohelkou Airport (LKHD). The aircraft, operated by the pilot, was performing a sightseeing flight with one passenger.
After departing from runway 19, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn at a very low altitude. During this maneuver, the aircraft encountered an unexpected and intense wind gust from the right. The pilot, who believed the aircraft had emerged from the lee of nearby trees, noted that the gust exceeded the aircraft's performance capabilities. The aircraft entered a descending turn, striking trees and a pine tree before spinning 180 degrees and impacting an oil storage building.
A massive fuel leak occurred upon impact, leading to a post-crash fire that destroyed the aircraft. The pilot and passenger both sustained severe injuries from the fire; the passenger subsequently passed away, while the pilot survived after hospitalization.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's experience, and meteorological data. The investigation established that the aircraft was well-maintained, with the engine and control surfaces fully functional prior to the accident. The aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permissible limits.
Investigators reviewed weather data from the Rašovka sounding station and local airport records. While the pilot was experienced in single-engine piston (SEP) operations, he had never operated at this specific airport during strong westerly winds. The investigation also noted that the pilot did not receive specific wind strength or direction updates from Hodkovacy RADIO prior to departure.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered a sudden, intense wind gust while performing a low-altitude turn in a turbulent environment.
- The pilot underestimated the impact of the wind on the aircraft's performance parameters.
- The pilot had no prior experience operating at this airfield during strong westerly wind conditions.
- The aircraft was flying in the turbulent wake/rotor area created by trees on the western side of the airfield during westerly winds.