What happened
On August 11, 2018, a Be-50 Beta Minor, registration OK-EAA, was participating in an aerial demonstration at the Strunkovice nad Blanicí airfield (LKSR) as part of an airshow. The aircraft, a reconstructed vintage design, was performing a series of maneuvers at low altitudes, ranging between 50 and 100 meters AGL.
After completing several successful passes and turns, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn toward the spectator boundary line. During the second half of this turn, the aircraft's bank angle increased rapidly, exceeding 90 degrees, accompanied by a sharp nose-down pitch. The aircraft entered a steep spiral dive and struck the ground at an angle of more than 90 degrees. The impact resulted in the death of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft. The wreckage also damaged another light aircraft parked on the airfield.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation utilized witness testimonies, amateur video recordings, and photographs of the flight sequence. The investigation examined the pilot's qualifications, the aircraft's maintenance status, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident.
Investigators analyzed the flight path, noting that the pilot had performed the initial maneuvers in accordance with the approved flight description. The investigation also included a technical examination of the engine, which was found to be running at the time of impact. While the aircraft's flight controls were found to be intact, the extreme destruction of the cockpit prevented investigators from determining if a specific control failure contributed to the loss of control.
Findings
- The pilot was highly experienced, with over 7,000 total flight hours and significant experience on the Be-50 type.
- The aircraft was in a valid state of airworthiness and the engine was operational during the accident.
- Meteorological conditions were generally suitable for flight (VMC), though the presence of ground winds and a turbulent environment was noted.
- The aircraft entered a steep spiral dive during a low-altitude turn.
- Contributing factors included the influence of surface winds and a turbulent atmosphere during the critical phase of the maneuver.