What happened
On May 1, 2019, at approximately 13:10 UTC, a Grob G103 Twin Astir, registration I-IAVS, was performing a recreational flight at Verona Boscomantico Airport (LIPN). During the final approach to runway 26, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 35 meters before the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the glider bounced several times on the runway surface before coming to a rest in the grassy area on the right side of the runway, roughly 20 meters from the threshold.
The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, including significant damage to the lower forward fuselage and the separation of the tail cone from the rest of the airframe. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
ANSV investigators examined the wreckage, ground impact marks, and witness testimony. A witness present at the airport threshold observed the glider on final approach with spoilers fully extended. The witness reported seeing the aircraft impact the ground without any apparent change in attitude, noting that the tail broke off after the first bounce.
The pilot reported that while flying through strong thermals and sink, they had shortened the base leg to ensure a safe approach. The pilot stated that during the final turn, the aircraft was in a stable descent with spoilers partially extended. However, just meters above the ground and before the flare, the aircraft suddenly pitched nose-down. The pilot attempted to retract the spoilers and pull up, but the aircraft failed to respond to controls, behaving as if in a stall, despite the absence of typical stall buffet vibrations.
Maintenance records indicated that the aircraft was airworthy and all required inspections were up to date prior to the flight.
Findings
- The aircraft struck the ground with the wings nearly level but at a moderate-to-high pitch-down angle and high speed.
- The investigation suggests the glider was in a steeper descent than intended during the final approach.
- The combination of excess altitude and a shortened base leg likely made managing flight parameters difficult for the pilot.
- The pilot's limited flight experience may have significantly contributed to the occurrence.