Aerobatic seat belts for SZD-54-2 and SZD-59-1

The manufacturer of SZD gliders, Allstar PZL Glider, obtained information indicating that the pilot may have caused to unintentionally unfasten the Gadringer seat belts installed in the first cabin of the SZD-54-2 Perkoz or the SZD-59 Acro.

In special circumstances, unintentional seat belt unfastening may occur, for example if the pilot is sitting very close to the control stick (short pilot) or the pilot's posture causes the seat belt buckle to be close to the control stick in its retracted position on the pilot.
In the situation when the stick is pulled on the pilot and then the pilot moves it laterally, it may slide across the belt buckle elements, which may in some circumstances lead to their unintentional unfastening. This situation may occur in flight, e.g. during acrobatics, or on the ground, e.g. during the landing roll.

In order to maintain the highest possible level of safety in the use of SZD gliders, as manufacturer we recommend special caution if, during preparation for flight, the pilot discovers a possible collision of the stick with the seat belt buckle. If such a situation proves possible, Allstar PZL Glider recommends replacing the Gadringer belts with J5 belts as an ad hoc remedy.

Bearing in mind the well-being of SZD glider users, Allstar PZL Glider agreed with the manufacturer of J5 belts to produce the larger amount of belts. Therefore, we would want our clients, the users interested in replacing Gadringer belts with J5 to report such a need to Allstar PZL Glider to the office@szdallstar.com email.