What happened
On June 14, 2000, a Glaser-Dirks DG-800 B motor glider departed for a thermalling flight. The takeoff, performed via self-launch with the retractable engine folded, proceeded without incident. Approximately 17 minutes into the flight, witnesses observed the aircraft enter a series of spinning, uncontrolled maneuvers before crashing into a nearby wooded area near Radevormwald. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the fatal injury of the pilot.
The investigation
The BFU investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the health of the pilot. Technical examinations of the Glaser-Dirugi DG-800 B revealed no mechanical defects or malfunctions in the flight controls; all observed damage was consistent with the impact with the ground. An onboard LX 20 satellite navigation device was recovered and analyzed, though the impact had erased the flight path data.
Medical examinations were also conducted. An autopsy performed by the University of Cologne determined that the pilot had suffered an acute coronary death. The post-mortem examination found no evidence that the pilot was under the influence of alcohol, sedatives, painkillers, or beta-blockers at the time of the incident. The pilot was noted to be highly experienced and proficient in the specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the sudden death of the pilot due to acute heart failure during flight.
- The loss of control and subsequent crash were the direct results of the pilot becoming incapacitated.
- Weather conditions at the time of the flight were favorable.
- There were no pre-existing technical failures or mechanical issues with the aircraft.