Factual Information
The aircraft involved was a Schempp-Hirth Discus 2A glider, registration HA-4514. The pilot held appropriate licenses for glider operations. The flight was a sport cross-country glider performance flight.
Sequence of Events
On July 3, 2024, at 11:07 local time, the pilot departed from Farkashegy Airport (LHFH) with the intention of flying a 750 km cross-country task. The wings were filled with water ballast. After release from tow at approximately 700 meters above ground level, the pilot proceeded southward. Weather conditions were not favorable for the planned task; after about 25 minutes, the pilot decided to land in a field. During the approach, the pilot noticed that the main landing gear was not locked in position. While attempting to re-secure the main gear, the pilot mismanaged priorities, lost airspeed, and the glider stalled. At 11:33 local time, the glider impacted the ground hard in the outskirts of Sóskút.
Damage and Injuries
The glider was destroyed as a result of the impact. The pilot sustained serious injuries (injuries requiring more than 8 days of recovery).
Probable Cause
The investigation identified the direct cause as the pilot's reduced situational awareness, manifested in pulling the elevator, uncontrolled extension of full airbrakes, and ignoring the higher stall speed, which led to a stall in the given situation.
The investigating board found no circumstances warranting the issuance of safety recommendations.