What happened
On September 10, 2017, at approximately 17:08 local time, a Rolladen-Schneider LS 8-a glider departed from the Hockenheim glider airfield via a winch launch. The pilot intended to perform a circuit flight. Witnesses observed the initial phase of the takeoff as normal; however, shortly after liftoff, the aircraft entered a very steep climb and began to bank sharply to the right. Approximately 200 meters from the takeoff point, the glider impacted the grass runway in a nearly vertical descent. The impact destroyed the aircraft and resulted in one fatality.
The investigation
The BFU examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The investigation noted that the pilot was performing his first takeoff using this specific aircraft model at this airfield. Witnesses reported that while the pilot had reviewed the aircraft's manual, he had not received a formal airfield orientation. Furthermore, observers noted that during pre-flight preparations, the pilot appeared to struggle with identifying cockpit controls and was not in an optimal seating position.
Physical examination of the Rolladen-Schneider LS 8-a revealed that the trim lever was set in a tail-heavy position. The impact caused the right wing to separate from the fuselage and the cockpit area to be destroyed, with the pilot being ejected from the cockpit. The investigation found no evidence of mechanical failure or technical defects in the aircraft's control systems or components.