What happened
On August 2, 2008, a Glasflügel Hornet glider was prepared for a check flight following its annual inspection. The pilot, an experienced flight instructor with over 3,100 total flight hours, was performing his first takeoff in this specific aircraft type. The flight was intended to be a winch launch from runway 2l at the Scheuen glider airfield.
At 14:20 local time, the glider departed the ground via a winch launch using a 320 hp custom-built double-drum winch. Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft began a right-hand roll around its longitudinal axis. This bank angle increased continuously until, at an altitude of approximately 30 meters, the glider stalled. The aircraft impacted the ground almost vertically approximately 200 meters from the takeoff point, resulting in the fatal injury of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the launch. The investigation found that the aircraft's center of gravity and loading were within prescribed limits. The weather conditions at the time were favorable, with light winds and clear visibility.
Upon inspecting the wreckage, investigators noted that the glider's fuselage nose made the initial contact with the ground, which caused the cockpit area to disintegrate and the tail unit to detach from the fuselage. The wing structure also sustained multiple fractures. Notably, the tow rope had not been released; although the weak link had broken during the launch sequence, the remaining portion of the rope remained attached to the aircraft.
Findings
- The investigation found no technical defects in the aircraft.
- The aircraft's weight and balance were within legal limits.
- The accident was characterized by a continuous increase in right-wing bank angle immediately following takeoff, leading to a stall and vertical impact.