What happened
On August 21, 2021, a Discus 2 glider, registration G-TOOB, was involved in an excursion at the Santa Cilia Aerodrome (LECI) in Huesca, Spain. Following a tow operation, the pilot was unable to find sufficient thermals to maintain altitude and decided to land.
During the landing sequence, the pilot executed an unconventional approach pattern. The pilot performed a much shorter and higher approach than the standard procedure, significantly reducing the downwind and base legs. This resulted in a very short final leg. Witnesses and the pilot noted that the aircraft turned onto final at a high altitude and high speed, approximately 70 kt.
Due to high stress levels, the pilot did not recall using the airbrakes during the approach. The aircraft touched down on the second half of the auxiliary runway at an excessive speed of approximately 130 km/h. Because the touchdown occurred so far down the runway, the wheel brakes were unable to stop the aircraft before the end of the paved surface. To avoid exiting the airfield into a nearby ravine, the pilot performed two consecutive sideslips to bleed off energy, which resulted in structural damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the flight history, the pilot's experience, and the aircraft's technical state. The investigation reviewed the pilot's statements, witness accounts from the tow plane pilot and another glider pilot, and the aircraft's maintenance records. The investigation also analyzed the flight manual's specifications regarding approach speeds and the use of airbrakes. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's airbrakes are highly effective and that the pilot was aware of this, but the high-stress environment contributed to their omission.
Findings
- The pilot executed an incorrect approach and landing maneuver.
- The aircraft touched down at an excessive speed of approximately 130 km/h, far exceeding the recommended landing speeds.
- The touchdown occurred in the second half of the runway, leaving insufficient distance to stop.
- The pilot failed to utilize the airbrakes during the approach.
- The pilot's attempt to decelerate via sideslips at the end of the runway caused the fuselage and tail cone to fracture.
- The weather conditions were favorable for visual flight and were not a contributing factor.