What happened
On May 4, 2013, a pilot was participating in a glider competition at the Bohmte-Bad Essen airfield (EDXD). While preparing for a long-distance flight, the pilot prepared a Sportine Aviacija LAK-19 for its second takeoff of the day using an electric winch. The aircraft had been filled with approximately 80 liters of water ballast prior to the launch.
At 12:55 local time, the glider was launched in the direction of runway 28. Shortly after liftoff, observers noted that the aircraft entered a very steep climb at a low altitude, accompanied by slight oscillations around the vertical axis. As the flight continued, the aircraft banked heavily to the right from an altitude of approximately 30 to 40 meters. The glider subsequently struck the ground almost vertically approximately 170 meters from the takeoff point. The impact resulted in one fatality and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BFU examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the launch. Due to the high degree of destruction, a technical examination of the aircraft was limited. Investigators were able to inspect the connections for the aileron and elevator control surfaces, but no technical defects were identified. All observed fractures in the control linkages and the airframe structure were attributed to the forces of the impact.
Findings
- The aircraft was heavily loaded with 80 liters of water ballast.
- The aircraft entered a steep climb and experienced oscillations immediately after takeoff.
- The primary cause of the crash was the steep bank and subsequent vertical impact following the loss of control at low altitude.