What happened
On June 27, 2024, a LAK-17B FES mini glider, registration LN-GLI, performed an unplanned landing in a grain field at Sætersmoen gård, near Elverum. The pilot was engaged in a long-distance flight attempt, aiming to set a Norwegian record for a 30-kilometer return trip. After an initial self-launch using the aircraft's electric motor, the pilot utilized the battery for several climbs throughout the flight. As the day progressed and thermal lift weakened, the pilot used the remaining electrical power to maintain altitude. Eventually, the battery reserves were exhausted, leaving the aircraft unable to return to the home airfield at Starmoen. To avoid the risks of attempting a glide over difficult terrain and forest, the pilot opted for a controlled landing in a large, suitable field.
During the landing approach, the left wingtip struck the tops of the tall grain (60–70 cm high). This contact caused the aircraft to enter a heavy leftward rotation and slide sideways through the crop before coming to a stop. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the Norwegian Glider Association in coordination with the NSIA, examined the flight logs and the aircraft's technical state. Investigators analyzed the energy consumption of the FES GEN2 battery system, noting that the self-launching process had consumed approximately half of the available battery capacity. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process regarding the transition from powered flight to pure gliding and the selection of the landing site. Technical inspections of the aircraft revealed that the left wing sustained severe damage, including compression and cracks in the wing root, necessitating a full replacement of the wing component. Minor damage was also noted on the fuselage, tail, and right wing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the landing was the depletion of the electric motor battery, which left the pilot without sufficient power to return to the airfield.
- The use of the motor for a self-launching departure significantly reduced the remaining energy available for the return leg of the mission.
- The high height of the grain at the time of the accident increased the risk of a ground loop and structural impact.
- The pilot's decision to abort the mission and perform a controlled field landing was considered appropriate to avoid more dangerous terrain.