What happened
On July 7, 2003, a Schleicher ASK-13 glider, registration PH-446, was involved in an accident at the Schinert airfield in Schinveld. The pilot had completed two training flights with an instructor earlier that day before attempting a solo flight. After being towed to an altitude of approximately 400 meters, the pilot released from the tow rope and proceeded to a practice area.
Finding no thermal activity, the pilot decided to return to the airfield circuit. Upon approaching the circuit, the pilot noted being at an altitude of 280 meters, which was higher than the required 200-meter entry altitude. As the pilot passed the takeoff point, the altitude was 200 meters, rather than the standard 150 meters. In an attempt to lose altitude, the pilot extended the airbrake. During the transition to the crosswind leg, the pilot briefly deployed the airbrakes and then closed them. However, during the turn toward the final approach leg, the aircraft experienced a significant descent. Realizing the airfield was no longer reachable, the pilot executed a controlled impact into the treetops to reduce forward speed.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's flight path and the use of flight controls during the circuit. It was established that the pilot was flying under the responsibility of an instructor, as they did not yet possess a formal certificate of competence. The investigation examined the sequence of altitude changes and the specific use of the airbrakes during the turns.
Findings
- The pilot was flying at an altitude that was too high for the standard circuit procedures.
- The pilot's use of the airbrakes in conjunction with improper circuit planning led to a rapid loss of altitude.
- By the time the pilot reached the final approach leg, the aircraft was too low to safely reach the landing area.
- There were no injuries to the pilot, though the Schleicher ASK-13 sustained unrepairable damage.