What happened
On August 15, 2020, a DG-800B glider, registration HB-2342, crashed into a steep rock face near Punta Chiara in the Rima San Giuseppe area. The flight departed from Locarno Airport, Switzerland, at 08:31 UTC for a recreational flight. After approximately 78 minutes of flight involving various climbs and turns, the aircraft struck the mountain at an altitude of approximately 2,625 meters AMSL. The pilot, a 59-year-old Swiss national with over 2,600 flight hours, was killed upon impact. The aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The ANSV examined the wreckage and recovered the aircraft's LX NAV LX 10K avionics unit. Analysis of the internal flight data revealed the aircraft's final trajectory, showing a series of climbs and 360-degree turns prior to the accident. Witnesses on the ground reported seeing the glider performing maneuvers near the peak and noted a sudden loss of control and a loud boom.
Investigators also inspected the flight control systems. While some loosening of locking nuts was found on control rod terminals, there was no evidence that this caused any disconnection. The engine and propeller remained stowed in their fuselage compartment. An autopsy confirmed the pilot's death was caused by the trauma of the impact, with no pre-existing medical conditions identified that could have contributed to the accident.
Findings
- The accident was likely caused by a loss of control in flight that could not be recovered due to the proximity of the terrain.
- This loss of control may have been triggered by an asymmetric stall, resulting from a turn that was too tight, which increased the load factor and stall speed.
- Alternatively, local microclimatic factors, such as turbulence or rotors, may have caused a sudden increase in the angle of attack on one wing.
- The pilot's high level of experience and recent training may have inadvertently led to a higher degree of confidence, potentially reducing safety margins regarding maneuver envelopes and terrain clearance.