What happened
On July 4, 2016, a pilot was conducting a type conversion flight in a Schleicher K8B sailplane, registration SE-SYK, at Gnesta/Vängsö airport. The pilot, who was transitioning to this older model which possesses inferior gliding performance compared to previous aircraft, had completed the theoretical and ground inspection training with the help of an experienced club member. An instructor was requested to monitor the flight.
The aircraft was towed to an altitude of 600 meters. After approximately ten minutes of free flight, the pilot transitioned to the descent sector for approach. To compensate for prevailing winds, the pilot maintained an airspeed of 110 km/h. During the final approach, the pilot encountered a wind gust that caused the aircraft to drop below the intended glide path. The glider touched down in a wheat field, crossed a road, and came to a stop with its nose embedded in a roadside ditch. The pilot sustained no injuries, though the aircraft suffered damage to the nose and wings.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the flight circumstances and the oversight process. The investigation noted that while the instructor monitored the takeoff and the initial tow, they were unable to observe the entire landing phase. The instructor had intended to use a handheld radio to monitor the approach from the ground but could not locate it, subsequently attempting to use a stationary ground radio instead. This delay meant the instructor only witnessed the final moments of the flight.
Findings
- The pilot's lack of experience with aircraft types featuring lower gliding performance than their previous training aircraft.
- The pilot's limited total and recent flight experience.
- Air brakes remained deployed during the latter part of the final approach.
- The flight oversight was not conducted effectively due to insufficient planning regarding communication equipment.