What happened
The pilot was performing a landing sequence, entering the downwind leg at 1,000 feet. During this phase, the pilot selected spoilers and adjusted the trim to reduce stick pressure. After completing the base and final turns, the pilot maintained the heading and approach speed until reaching approximately ten feet above the ground. At this altitude, the pilot experienced a sudden drop in audible airspeed, followed by a rapid descent. Witnesses observed the aircraft on final approach at an altitude of approximately 8 feet above ground level before it appeared to shudder and abruptly pitch nose down. The glider crashed on the runway approximately 500 feet from the threshold of runway 27.
The investigation
An examination of the flight controls showed no evidence of any malfunction or failure prior to the impact. Investigators noted that the elevator trim indicator for the rear seat was set to full nose-down, which matched the position of the trim tab. Additionally, the battery used to power the variometer was found secured to the top shelf behind the rear seat using bungee cords.
Findings
Investigators found that while the manufacturer recommends securing the battery with material capable of withstanding 9 g's, they do not recommend the use of rubber strip material. The aircraft impacted the ground at a pitch angle of approximately 45 to 50 degrees nose down.