What happened
On November 25, 2012, a Scheibe SF-28 motor glider, registration EC-DKJ, was performing a solo flight for training purposes at La Mancha Aerodrome in Toledo, Spain. The pilot, who was undergoing advanced training for a TMG2 rating, had previously completed several takeoff and landing maneuvers, including several engine-off approaches.
During the final approach to runway 10, the pilot decided to perform an engine-off landing, intending to touchdown close to the runway threshold as a practice for short-field operations. While flying at an altitude of approximately 6 meters, the left wing of the aircraft struck a tree branch located in the approach area near the 'Zanja de la Veguilla' ditch. The impact caused a sharp left yaw, and although the pilot attempted to maintain control, the aircraft's longitudinal axis drifted significantly. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground with high energy, causing the main landing gear to collapse and the left wing to break.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the flight path, the aircraft's condition, and the environmental obstacles. Investigators analyzed the impact marks on the ground, which showed that the left wing made initial contact with the terrain, followed by a violent impact from the main landing gear and the left auxiliary gear. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training status and the specific maneuver being practiced.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the impact of the left wing with a tree branch due to the pilot's inadequate assessment of the aircraft's altitude.
- The pilot's intention to perform a short-field landing (touching down close to the runway threshold) was a contributing factor, as this maneuver required flying at a very low altitude, thereby reducing the safety margin between the aircraft and the nearby obstacles.
- The pilot sustained a minor fracture to a dorsal vertebra but was able to exit the aircraft on his own.
- The Scheibe SF-28 sustained substantial damage, including a collapsed main landing gear, a broken left wing at the spoiler level, and a detached left auxiliary landing gear.