What happened
On January 12, 1980, at approximately 16:20, a Blanick L13 glider, registration CS-PAW, operated by the Aeroclube de Coimbra, was engaged in a flight to investigate potential wave lift conditions between the Serra da Lousã and the Cernache Aerodrome. The flight was initiated following the sighting of a lenticular cloud in the area. The glider was towed into the air by an aircraft and released at an altitude of approximately 800 meters QFE near the village of Ceira.
After failing to encounter the anticipated wave lift, the pilot began a return to the aerodrome as the aircraft was losing altitude. While flying at approximately 200 meters QSB, the pilot executed right-hand turns over the hangar area. At an altitude of roughly 100 meters, the pilot prepared for landing by deploying flaps and selecting brakes. However, due to the influence of the wind, the aircraft entered a descent that prevented it from reaching the runway. In an attempt to land, the pilot targeted the barrier preceding the runway, resulting in a heavy collision with the ground on a nearby slope.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the flight history, the meteorological conditions, and the physical state of the aircraft. Investigators confirmed that the pilot held a valid private glider pilot license and was properly qualified for the flight. The aircraft was found to be certified, equipped, and maintained in accordance with DGAC regulations, with no mechanical anomalies detected that could have contributed to the accident.
Physical damage to the CS-PAW was extensive. The impact caused the fuselage to twist at the wing attachment points, cracked the upper canopy, and damaged the tail cone and nose. The right wing sustained a break near the fifth rib and showed significant skin buckling extending toward the wing root.
Findings
- The pilot encountered strong winds and predictable orographic downdrafts.
- Unexpectedly high descent rates prevented the glider from maintaining enough altitude to reach the aerodrome runway.
- Meteorological conditions at the time included high clouds and an East wind of 10 to 15 knots.