What happened
On March 12, 2003, at 14:20 UTC, a KA 6 CR glider, registration D-8793, crashed in the Champagne area near Villeneuve, Italy. The flight originated from Aosta airport as a local sightseeing mission, with the pilot intending to fly toward Mont Blanc before returning to the departure airfield. The aircraft was initially towed to an altitude of 1,000 meters AGL by a Robin DR 400.
During the return leg of the flight, the pilot was unable to find sufficient rising air currents to maintain the necessary altitude to reach Aosta. Consequently, the pilot attempted an off-field landing on a flat, unobstructed area located near the A/5 motorway. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a stall, resulting in a high-angle, nose-first impact with the ground. The impact caused the total destruction of the aircraft and resulted in one fatality.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the wreckage, the local topography, and meteorological conditions. The investigation found that the aircraft's flight control mechanisms, including the ailerons, elevators, and rudder, were fully functional and showed no signs of mechanical failure. The aircraft had also undergone its required periodic inspections with positive results.
Analysis of the impact site revealed a crater approximately 60 centimeters in diameter, indicating the initial point of contact. The distribution of debris—specifically the destruction of the cockpit and nose cone—confirmed that the aircraft struck the ground in a steep, nose-down attitude. The investigation also noted that the terrain in the valley is characterized by a lack of suitable landing areas, making the chosen site the only viable option for an emergency landing.
Findings
- The pilot attempted an emergency off-field landing due to a lack of lift.
- The aircraft entered a stall during the landing maneuver.
- The impact occurred at a high angle of attack, leading to the immediate destruction of the forward fuselage.
- Meteorological conditions were otherwise favorable, with excellent visibility and moderate westerly winds.
- There were no signs of medical impairment or mechanical failure prior to the loss of control.