What happened
On May 31, 2025, a Schempp_Hirth Janus C glider, registration SP-4020, was performing a round-trip flight from Dvur Kralove n. Labem (LKDK) via Liberec. During the flight, the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions, characterized by developing thunderstorms and fading thermals.
In response to the changing weather, the pilot decided to divert to the nearest airfield, Vrchlabi (LKVR). However, as the aircraft descended to approximately 150 meters over undulating terrain, the pilot determined that a safe approach to LKVR was no longer possible. Consequently, a decision was made to land at the Brabenec landing field. While performing a landing pattern maneuver, the aircraft's altitude dropped to a level that prevented an approach aligned with the landing strip. The pilot attempted a landing across the field on an adjacent stubble field at an increased airspeed.
Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to steer the glider to align the direction of travel with the furrows of the stubble field. During this maneuver, the left wingtip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to execute a 270-degree ground loop. The aircraft sustained severe damage, though there were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the decision-making process regarding the diversion, and the altitude at which the emergency landing was initiated. The investigation also reviewed the preventive measures implemented by the investigating entity following the occurrence.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the decision to land in an unprepared field at an altitude that did not allow for a proper approach maneuver.
- A contributing factor was the delayed decision to either abort the flight and return to the original airfield or to select a suitable landing site while at a sufficient altitude.
Safety action
- The sequence of events has been reviewed within the relevant organization.
- Procedures regarding landings in unprepared terrain will be included in training sessions during annual aviation safety conferences.