What happened
On 9 September 2023, a SCHEMPP-HITTH FLUGZERGBAU GMBH DISCUS 2B glider, registration G-TOOB, was performing a local flight at Santa Cilia de Jaca Aerodrome in Huesca, Spain. During the landing phase on runway 27 L, the aircraft touched down abruptly near the end of the paved surface. Due to excessive speed, the aircraft climbed briefly after touchdown, overshot the runway, and struck trees in a wooded area at the end of the runway extension. The impact caused the aircraft to fall vertically to the ground, resulting in the fatal injury of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's flight parameters using FLARM data, which revealed the aircraft was traveling at an indicated airspeed of 89 km/h at touchdown, significantly higher than the recommended landing speed of 70 km/h. Investigators also examined the cockpit and interviewed witnesses present during the pre-take-off phase.
Evidence found in the cockpit revealed that the pilot had implemented several non-approved modifications to assist with aircraft operation. These included a rope tied to the pilot's right shoe to help operate the landing gear lever, a separate rope used to manipulate the airbrake lever, and a wooden board used to assist with pedal pressure. Witnesses confirmed that the pilot lacked the strength to operate the standard controls and required assistance from ground personnel to secure the airbrakes and level the wings during take-off.
Findings
- The pilot's approach and landing were executed incorrectly due to a pre-existing physical incapacity to manipulate the flight controls with the required strength.
- To compensate for physical limitations, the pilot used improvised ropes and wooden aids to operate the airbrakes, landing gear, and rudder pedals.
- The pilot was forced to release the pitch and roll control during the approach to manipulate the airbrake and landing gear ropes, preventing a standard landing configuration.
- The landing speed was approximately 27% above the recommended landing speed, which significantly increased the kinetic energy and extended the landing roll.
- An inadequate safety culture among the ground personnel assisting the pilot contributed to the accident, as they were aware of the pilot's physical limitations but did not intervene.