What happened
On July 11, 2000, a Schemp-Hirth Duo-Discus glider, registration F-CHPG, was conducting a local circuit flight after launching from Vinon-sur-Verdon. The flight, involving a pilot and one passenger, initially proceeded with the crew utilizing various thermals to maintain altitude.
As the flight progressed, the crew moved toward the Mont Ventoux area. However, as the glider reached the Longue Serre mountains, the aerodynamic conditions prevented the pilot from continuing the planned circuit toward Chalencon-Village. Finding themselves in a valley with a constant sink rate and no available lift, the crew attempted an outlanding near the village of La Charce. During the final approach into a field, the glider struck a bump at the edge of the landing area. The impact caused the front cockpit to strike the ground violently and resulted in the structural failure of the tail boom. The accident resulted in two injuries and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the crew's decision-making process and their adherence to established safety protocols. Investigators examined the GPS data, which provided a precise track of the flight but failed to account for the altitude of the terrain and mountain passes the crew intended to cross.
The investigation also reviewed the morning briefing provided by the flying club. This briefing included specific weather warnings regarding strong West-Northwest winds and instructions to avoid landing in certain fields due to the risk of turbulence caused by rotors under the lee of the mountains. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the discrepancy between the pilot's perceived wind direction and the actual meteorological conditions present in the area.
Findings
- The pilot's insufficient consideration of meteorological conditions and club safety instructions led the crew into a high-risk area.
- There was a lack of effective communication and coordination between the two occupants, particularly during the final approach when the crew failed to consult on the landing trajectory.
- The pilot relied heavily on GPS data and weather reports from Saint-Christol, which did not accurately reflect the local terrain obstacles or the actual wind conditions.
- The crew failed to perform standard precautionary checklists or issue a distress message during the final phase of the flight.
- The decision to attempt an outlanding in a terrain that was difficult to assess contributed to the impact with the ground obstacle.