What happened
On October 26, 2002, a Grob 103 C glider, registration I-IVVW, was performing a local training flight at Alzate Brianza Airport. After being towed for takeoff, the pilot searched for thermals but, finding none, decided to return to the airfield.
During the approach, the pilot entered the circuit at a lower-than-optimal altitude. Due to being in a downwind position, the pilot initiated the base turn early and bypassed standard spoiler checks to avoid losing further altitude. Consequently, the glider approached the runway threshold with excessive speed, excessive altitude, and a heading misaligned with the runway axis. In an attempt to bleed off altitude and speed, the pilot moved the trim lever instead of the spoiler lever. This error led to a severe flight parameter deviation, resulting in a violent impact with the ground adjacent to the runway.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation focused on the flight sequence and the pilot's actions during the landing phase. The investigation noted that the pilot had held a glider license for only ten months and had a total of 59 flight hours. The investigation examined the cockpit layout, specifically the proximity of the spoiler and trim levers, and reviewed the pilot's statement regarding the sequence of maneuvers.
Findings
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with non-standard flight parameters caused significant apprehension.
- This apprehension led the pilot to intentionally omit essential pre-landing checks, such as verifying spoiler deployment.
- The incorrect operation of the trim lever instead of the spoilers was the primary factor in the loss of control.
- The impact resulted in serious injuries to the pilot and extensive damage to the aircraft, including the detachment of the tail unit and damage to the cockpit canopy.