What happened
On January 4, 2015, a Schleicher ASK21 glider, registration I-SABI, was performing a recreational flight at Rieti Airport. After being towed to approximately 1,000 meters AGL, the pilot completed a period of gliding and prepared for landing on runway 16L.
During the initial approach, the pilot maintained a speed of 90 km/h with airbrakes extended. Realizing that the aircraft had passed the midpoint of the runway and that the remaining distance was insufficient for a safe landing—particularly because other gliders were lined up at the end of the runway—the pilot decided to execute a go-around. The pilot utilized the aircraft's remaining energy (approximately 150 km/h) to climb to an altitude of roughly 40 to 50 meters, repositioning to the right downwind side of runway 16L.
On the second approach, the pilot flew at approximately 85 km/h with airbrakes retracted. As the aircraft reached about 3 meters above the ground, the pilot performed a slight flare. This maneuver, combined with existing flight conditions, led to a loss of airspeed and a subsequent stall. The glider impacted the runway, yawing to the right and sustaining substantial damage, including the complete detachment of the tail boom and damage to the right wing and lower fuselage. There were no injuries to the two occupants.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the flight parameters, meteorological conditions, and the pilot's decision-making process. The investigation reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be in order, and the pilot's credentials, noting the pilot was an instructor with approximately 700 total flight hours.
Investigators analyzed the wind conditions, which were recorded as 8 knots from 280°. They determined that both approaches involved a significant tailwind component. The investigation focused on the relationship between the pilot's airspeed, the tailwind, and the aerodynamic state of the glider during the final flare.