Glider Crash in Rio Saliceto Caused by Improper Off-Field Landing Procedure

Casualties unknown • Rio Saliceto (RE), IT

A Schempp-Hirth Standard Cirrus glider sustained heavy damage after an unsuccessful off-field landing in Italy, resulting in facial injuries to the pilot.

What happened

On May 22, 2004, a Schempp-Hirth Standard Cirrus glider, registration D-0786, performed an off-field landing near Rio Saliceto, Italy, during a competitive soaring event. The pilot was participating in the Italian Club Class Championship when a sudden increase in cloud cover led to a loss of thermal activity. While searching for rising air, the pilot encountered highly turbulent conditions and strong vertical air currents.

At approximately 100 meters above ground level, the pilot decided to execute an emergency landing in a nearby field. To maintain a safety margin against stalling in the turbulence, the pilot flew the approach at approximately 120 km/h. The approach was conducted too close to the landing site, resulting in a steep descent path. The aircraft touched down at an excessive speed of roughly 100 km/h. In an attempt to brake by pitching the nose down, the pilot caused the glider to bounce approximately 30 to 40 meters into the air. After the initial touchdown, the glider jumped across a 2.5-meter ditch, causing the landing gear tire to burst. The aircraft's forward momentum was eventually halted by impacts with trees and a concrete post, which caused significant structural damage to the nose, cockpit, and wings.

The investigation

The ANSV investigation focused on the pilot's approach and the sequence of maneuvers during the final descent. Investigators examined the meteorological conditions, noting that a cold front was approaching the region, which had suppressed thermal activity. The investigation analyzed the flight path, the pilot's decision-making regarding airspeed and altitude, and the mechanical impact of the landing maneuvers on the airframe.

Findings

  • The pilot's approach was too close to the landing field, creating a steep glide path that required more runway than was available.
  • The pilot maintained an airspeed of 120 km/h to avoid stalling in turbulence, which was approximately 25-30 km/h above the optimal speed for the conditions.
  • The primary cause of the accident was the incorrect execution of the off-field landing procedure.
  • The pilot's attempt to use the tail skid for braking by pitching the nose down caused a significant aerodynamic bounce.
  • The pilot sustained facial injuries and trauma during the impact.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an improper off-field landing technique, characterized by an excessively steep approach and high airspeed, which led to an overrun and subsequent collision with a concrete post.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-05-22 Standard Cirrus, accident near Rio Saliceto (RE), IT?

A Schempp-Hirth Standard Cirrus glider sustained heavy damage after an unsuccessful off-field landing in Italy, resulting in facial injuries to the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-05-22 involved a Standard Cirrus,, registration D-0786, at Rio Saliceto (RE), IT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an improper off-field landing technique, characterized by an excessively steep approach and high airspeed, which led to an overrun and subsequent collision with a concrete post.

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