What happened
During a private flight at Varberg/Getterön Airport, a motor glider experienced a loss of control immediately following takeoff from runway 12. The pilot, an 83-year-old individual with limited recent flight experience, had previously conducted operations using an informal runway 18. On this occasion, the aircraft departed from runway 12 into southerly winds averaging 10 knots, with gusts reaching 17 knots.
Witnesses observed the aircraft drifting toward the left side of the runway shortly after lifting off. The aircraft's left wing subsequently struck the ground, followed by the nose, which caused the aircraft to tip onto its back. The pilot sustained serious injuries but remained conscious and communicative following the impact. Emergency services responded to the scene, where they managed a small fuel leak and provided medical transport to a hospital.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority examined radar tracks, witness accounts, and the aircraft's condition. The investigation confirmed that no technical malfunctions were present on the aircraft that could have contributed to the accident. Furthermore, the pilot reported a total lack of memory regarding the events of the day or the accident itself.
Findings
While a definitive cause for the accident could not be established, investigators identified two primary contributing factors. The combination of wind gusts and potentially reduced pilot reaction capability likely led to the loss of control. Because the incident occurred at such a low altitude, there was insufficient time or height for the pilot to recover the aircraft before the wing struck the terrain.