What happened
On November 11, 2018, an L 13 SE Vivat, registration OK-9111, was performing a local VFR flight at Zábřeh Airport (LKZA). During the landing sequence, the pilot decided to shorten the approach pattern due to increasing winds. While transitioning through the downwind leg to the final approach for runway 28, the pilot failed to extend the landing gear and neglected to perform the required gear check.
An information provider at the airfield noticed the gear was still retracted and broadcast a warning over the radio. The pilot did not respond to the initial warnings, only increasing engine power. As the aircraft reached a low altitude of approximately 7 meters, the pilot attempted to extend the gear. This instinctive movement caused the pilot to inadvertently move the control stick, pushing the aircraft into a descent. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground with its nose on the grass strip adjacent to runway 28.
The impact caused significant damage to the nose, both wing halves, and the rear fuselage, resulting in the aircraft being written off. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was transported to a trauma center by helicopter.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's flight history, and the sequence of cockpit actions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had a valid certificate of airworthiness and no mechanical failures were found that would have prevented the gear from extending. The pilot's medical certificate and licenses were valid, and a post-accident breathalyzer test was negative. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's written statement, in which he admitted that his attempt to correct the error led to the loss of control.
Findings
- The pilot failed to extend the main landing gear prior to landing.
- The pilot did not perform the mandatory landing gear check during the approach.
- The pilot'ost attempt to correct the gear configuration caused an uncontrolled descent.
- The pilot failed to respond to the radio warnings by executing a go-around.
- The aircraft's nose and engine mounts were severely damaged by the impact with the ground.