What happened
On October 25, 2020, a Schempp-Hirth Discus bT motor glider departed from the Melle-Grönegau airfield via aero-tow at approximately 08:46 local time. The flight was intended to utilize ridge lift along the Wiehen and Weser Hills. After separating from the tow plane, the aircraft climbed to an altitude of 950 m AMSL and began gliding along the ridge to the east, utilizing thermal and ridge lift between 300 m and 550 m AMSL.
Following a turn near Schaumburg, the pilot returned westward along the ridge. At approximately 10:16, the aircraft turned east again, following the ridge line. Flight data from the onboard logger indicated an increasing sink rate of 3 to 4 m/s during this period. The final GPS signal was recorded at 10:17 at an altitude of 198 m AMSL, roughly 1.5 km west of the accident site. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude and noted that the ridge lift was performing poorly in that specific area, with localized turbulence present in the lower altitudes.
Ground witnesses reported hearing an impact, and the wreckage was subsequently located in a field. The aircraft sustained heavy damage, including a broken fuselage and a detached left wing. The pilot sustained severe injuries during the impact and subsequent rollover.
The investigation
The BFU examined the aircraft's GPS logger data, which provided a reconstruction of the flight path. The investigation also included the analysis of FLARM data from other gliders operating in the area at the time of the accident. Physical examination of the wreckage revealed that the left wing had detached at the root, with the spoiler deployed, while the right wing remained attached. The engine's master switch was found in the off position, and fuel was present in the tank and lines, with no evidence of leakage at the scene. The investigation was concluded with the presentation of facts, without formal analysis or conclusions.