What happened
On June 12, 2002, at approximately 06:45 UTC, a motorized hang glider was performing a landing approach at the St. Stefan model airfield in Kaindorf. While the pilot was executing a circuit prior to landing, the engine of the Wills Wing Sport 167 (equipped with an HHM 210/1 motor) failed for unknown reasons.
Unable to reach the intended airfield, the pilot attempted an emergency landing in a barley field located within the municipality of Dienersdorf, approximately 500 meters from the airfield. During the landing, the wheels of the aircraft became obstructed by the barley crop, causing the glider to pitch forward and crash. The impact resulted in one serious injury to the pilot and significant damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Safety Investigation Office (SUB) to determine the sequence of events. The reconstruction of the flight path was based on statements provided by the pilot and findings from the investigation team. Due to the nature of the incident, the investigation was concluded as a simplified report, focusing on the established facts of the occurrence.