What happened
On 27 July 2019, a Schleicher ASW 19 B glider, registration EI-GLV, was conducting a local soaring flight near Dunlavin, Co Wicklow. After being launched via aerotow from Gowran Grange airfield, the pilot attempted to find thermal activity to maintain altitude. However, despite searching north, south, and west of the area, the pilot was unable to locate enough lift to continue the flight.
As the aircraft descended to approximately 1,000 ft AGL, the pilot began searching for a suitable location for an out-landing. A field was identified when the glider was at roughly 300 ft AGL. During the approach, the pilot determined that the chosen field could not be safely reached due to a line of trees at the boundary. Consequently, the pilot executed a turn to land in an alternative field located uphill. During the landing roll, the glider struck a hedgerow surrounding the field, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot, who was wearing a parachute, escaped without injury.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The investigation confirmed that the Schleier ASW 19 B sustained significant impact damage, including cracks and delamination on both the left and right wings near the airbrakes. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting they held a Bronze Certificate and a cross-country endorsement. Meteorological data indicated good visibility and the presence of cumulus clouds, which typically signal thermals, though none were found by the pilot during this flight.
Findings
- The pilot was unable to locate sufficient thermal activity to sustain the flight or return to the departure airfield.
- The search for a landing site began at 1,000 ft AGL, but a suitable field was not identified until the aircraft had descended to 300 ft AGL.
- The pilot was unable to clear the tree line of the primary target field, necessitating a change in approach to a secondary location.
- The glider's momentum and the short distance of the landing field prevented the aircraft from stopping before impacting the hedgerow.