What happened
On 22 April 2022, a Schempp-Hirth Duo Discus glider, registration F-CXBD, was conducting an introductory flight near the Col du Portillon mountain pass. The flight, operated by Aéroclub de Luchon, began with a towed takeoff from Bagnères-de-Luchon aerodrome. After releasing the tow cable at approximately 1,700 meters, the pilot flew along the terrain to the north of the mountain pass and performed several spiral maneuvers.
During the flight, the pilot noted increasing turbulence. Due to the passenger's discomfort caused by the choppy conditions, the pilot decided to abort the flight and return to the aerodrome. While flying along the terrain on the return leg, the glider encountered a strong crosswind that caused the aircraft to drift toward the right. Despite the pilot applying full left control input to counteract the drift and maintain distance from the terrain, the glider struck the ground. The aircraft bounced upon impact before coming to rest on a slope at an altitude of 1,660 meters.
The investigation
The investigation relied on the glider's FLARM data and statements from the pilot and the club's chief pilot. Investigators examined the wreckage, which was found balanced on a slope with the left wing caught on a rock and the nose and right wing touching the ground. Meteorological data from Météo-France confirmed light to moderate turbulence and winds from 170° at 5 knots, gusting to 15 knots.
Findings
- The pilot encountered unexpected downdrafts and wind shifts while flying near the mountain face.
- The pilot failed to maintain sufficient safety margins on the return leg after recognizing that the weather conditions had deteriorated.
- The pilot was aware that the specific area should be avoided during strong southerly winds but did not anticipate the rapid change in conditions.