Overview
On 21 June 2025 at 20:11 local time, a Scheibe SF 28 A "Tandem-Falke" motorglider, registration EC-DKJ, crashed into terrain adjacent to Lillo aerodrome (LELT) in Toledo, Spain. The aircraft was operated by Real Aeroclub de Toledo and was conducting a local training flight under dual instruction. Both occupants—a student pilot in the front seat and an instructor in the rear—suffered serious injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Flight Details
The flight departed from Lillo aerodrome at 19:35 local time via runway 30. The student pilot was working to reinstate his SPL and TMG licenses; this was his second flight in this type. Pre-flight checks were completed, and the engine was started around 19:20. The takeoff was performed by the student with instructor assistance. After takeoff, the engine was used to climb to a thermal, then shut off for soaring. The flight remained local, between the aerodrome and the town of Villacañas, at altitudes up to 800–1000 meters AGL. The instructor noted deteriorating conditions—increasing darkness and rain fronts to the south—and decided to return.
Weather Conditions
At departure, wind was from the south-southwest at about 6 knots. Conditions worsened rapidly. Qualified witnesses reported strong, gusty winds with variable direction around the aerodrome. Thunderstorms and precipitation were observed, and Lillo became overcast.
Accident Sequence
Approaching LELT, the instructor initially planned to land on runway 30. Due to rapid weather degradation, he took control and executed a short right-hand circuit to land on runway 12. During final approach at low altitude, wind deviated the aircraft 90 degrees to the right. This was followed by a severe right roll, then a left roll, then another right roll, after which the aircraft pitched nose-down with a right bank and struck the terrain.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the accident was caused by a loss of control during landing due to changing weather conditions that were not adequately considered during flight planning.