Glider crash during takeoff in Germany

Casualties unknown • Bad Gandersheim (EDVA), DK

A Schleicher ASW20 glider sustained significant damage after its left wing struck the ground during a takeoff roll at Bad Gandersheim.

What happened

On July 13, 2020, a Schleicher ASW20 glider, registered as OY-XPF, was involved in an accident during a takeoff attempt at the Bad Gandersheim airfield (EDVA) in Germany. The flight was being conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) for private purposes. During the takeoff roll, the left wing of the aircraft made contact with the ground, leading to a subsequent crash. The incident resulted in serious injury to one person on board, while no fatalities were reported.

The investigation

Because the accident occurred on German territory, the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU) served as the lead investigative authority. The Danish Accident Investigation Board (Havarikommissionen) received notifications regarding the event from both the Danish Glider Association and the BFU. Following an initial safety assessment, the Danish authorities determined that no further investigation was required from their side, as the BFU had concluded its investigation and did not intend to release additional details beyond its July 2020 bulletin.

Probable cause

The left wing of the glider struck the ground during the takeoff roll, causing structural damage to the nose and tail of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-07-13 aircraft accident near Bad Gandersheim (EDVA), DK?

A Schleicher ASW20 glider sustained significant damage after its left wing struck the ground during a takeoff roll at Bad Gandersheim.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-07-13 involved a aircraft, registration OY-XPF, at Bad Gandersheim (EDVA), DK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The left wing of the glider struck the ground during the takeoff roll, causing structural damage to the nose and tail of the aircraft.

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