What happened
On March 15, 2008, at approximately 15:30 local time, a Schempp-Hirth Discus CS glider, registration EC-GXS, was performing a towed takeoff from runway 34 at the Fuentemilanos Aerodrome in Segovia. The glider was being towed by another aircraft, registration EC-DDM, for a local flight.
During the takeoff roll, the glider failed to maintain wing leveling or alignment with the runway centerline. After traveling a short distance along the runway, the right wingtip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to deviate approximately 30 degrees from the runway axis. Once the aircraft left the paved surface, the pilot released the tow cable. However, the glider, which had its tail lifted, pivoted on the right wingtip until it faced the opposite direction of the takeoff roll. The tail subsequently struck the ground, causing the rear section of the fuselage to break and detach. The accident also resulted in significant damage to both wings and the vertical and horizontal stabilizers.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's movement during the takeoff roll and the prevailing meteorological conditions. Data from the State Meteorological Agency and local sources indicated that winds were blowing from the west/west-northwest at approximately 18 to 20 knots, with gusts reaching between 23 and 35 knots.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was excessive crosswind during the takeoff roll.
- The recorded wind speeds significantly exceeded the maximum allowable crosswind component of 11 knots specified in the aircraft's flight manual.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and control surfaces.
- The pilot was uninjured and able to exit the aircraft independently.