What happened
On July 19, 1999, at 16:05, a Schleicher ASW 20 L Top glider, registration D-KKDD, was performing a local flight at Blois Aerodrome. While returning to the airfield, the pilot was executing the right downwind leg of the aerodrome circuit, intending to land on runway 21. A witness observed that while the aircraft was at a suitable altitude, it was flying closer to the terrain than is typical for glider operations in that area.
As the pilot transitioned into the final turn, the aircraft passed the extended centerline for runway 21. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced a loss of control, causing the left wing to strike the ground. The glider subsequently pivoted 140 degrees before coming to rest east of the runway 21 centerline. The impact resulted in one injury to the pilot and caused severe damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the accident site to reconstruct the flight path and the mechanics of the impact. The examination of the debris confirmed that the left wing was the initial point of contact with the ground. The investigation also considered environmental factors, noting that meteorological conditions at the time included winds from 220° at 10 to 20 knots and scattered cumulus clouds at approximately 5,200 feet.
Findings
- The investigation established that the accident was caused by a loss of control during the final turn.
- The pilot's flight path involved an excessive height during the aerodrome circuit, which necessitated a tight final turn.
- Investigators noted that the loss of control may have been triggered by either an inappropriate flying technique or an unidentified aerological phenomenon.