What happened
On June 11, 2011, a student pilot was conducting a solo flight under supervision from the Betzdorf-Kirchen airfield (EDKI). After departing on runway 26 via glider tow, the pilot attempted to locate thermals in the surrounding area. Following an unsuccessful search, the pilot returned toward the airfield but encountered strong sinking air.
During the return, the flight instructor, who was monitoring the flight via radio, instructed the pilot to alter the flight path toward a southern landing field. However, the pilot continued the approach to the airfield, resulting in a low-altitude impact with trees located just before the western end of the runway. The right wing of the Schleicher ASK 13 made initial contact with the vegetation, causing the aircraft to nose-down into the trees, where it became suspended without touching the ground.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the aircraft, the flight conditions, and the pilot's experience. The investigation established that the aircraft, a Schleicher ASK 13, was heavily damaged, including a torn elevator and damage to the fuselage keel. The pilot, a 16-year-old student with approximately 29 hours of total flight time, was rescued from the wreckage without injury. Meteorological data from the nearby Siegerland station indicated light winds and low cloud cover at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's decision to continue the approach to the airfield despite encountering strong sinking air.
- The aircraft struck trees at a low altitude, leading to significant structural damage to the wing and tail surfaces.