What happened
On August 19, 2013, a Centrair 101 Pégase glider, registration F-CGSO, departed from Nevers aerodrome for a 100 km round-trip flight to Auxerre. During the return leg, approximately two hours and twenty minutes into the flight, the pilot encountered a lack of rising air and determined they could not reach Nevers, which was still 30 km away. Seeking lift, the pilot flew toward the base of a cumulus cloud located about 5 km away. However, unable to gain further altitude, the pilot decided to perform a field landing. During the landing, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force.
The investigation
The investigation established that while meteorological conditions were generally suitable for gliding, other pilots in the area reported that thermal activity was poor that day. The pilot, an experienced flyer with 50/500 hours in gliders, was unfamiliar with the hilly terrain where the landing occurred. The landing site featured a slope of approximately 20%, and the approach was made facing the upward slope—a maneuver requiring specific training that the pilot had not received.
Analysis of the wreckage indicated that the flare was likely performed too late and at an excessive landing speed. Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot had flown below the recommended decision altitude. The pilot admitted to an excess of confidence, stating they wanted to "fight for the sport" before being forced to land. The investigation also noted that the landing gear had been retracted during the landing.
Findings
- The late decision to land in a field led to the selection of an unsuitable landing site characterized by a steep slope.
- An excess of confidence caused the pilot to continue searching for lift until a dangerously low altitude.
- The decision to land with the retracted landing gear contributed to the severity of the impact.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with the specific terrain and the lack of specialized training for landing on upward slopes were contributing factors.