What happened
On August 30, 2022, at approximately 09:58 UTC, a Schempp-Hirth Duo Discus T motor glider was conducting a cross-country flight from Wr. Neustadt/West (LOXN) toward Salzburg. The flight began with a tow launch, reaching an initial altitude of approximately 1,300 m AMSL. After utilizing thermal activity near the Größenberg and Brunntaler Höhe, the pilot was unable to locate further rising air currents while flying west.
As the aircraft's altitude decreased, the pilot initiated a turn back toward Rohr im Gebirge. While navigating a valley, the pilot found the aircraft increasingly constrained by the terrain. In an attempt to maintain altitude, the pilot deployed the auxiliary engine. However, feeling trapped by the surrounding landscape and experiencing significant stress, the pilot decided to retract the engine and instead execute an outlanding on the only available meadow.
The landing was exceptionally hard, causing the cockpit canopy to shatter upon impact. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a wildlife fence, which the fuselage breached. The aircraft subsequently rolled backward a short distance on the sloping terrain before coming to a stop. The passenger sustained serious injuries, while the pilot escaped with minor injuries. The aircraft suffered extensive damage.
The investigation
The SUB investigation reconstructed the flight path using pilot statements and flight computer position data. The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's decision-making process, and the environmental factors, including terrain and weather. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records and the pilot's experience with similar high-stress situations in mountainous terrain.