What happened
On August 4, 2012, at approximately 13:40 local time, a Schempp Hirth Cirrus glider, registration F-CEVU, was performing a local flight via aero-tow from the Mont-Dauphin Saint-Crépin aerodrome. During the flight, the pilot released the glider from the towplane at an altitude of approximately 1,420 meters. At the moment of release, the aircraft was positioned roughly 200 meters horizontally from the terrain directly ahead. Witnesses observed the glider immediately adopt a steep nose-down attitude following the release, leading to a collision with the ground. The accident resulted in one fatality and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the flight sequence and the mechanical state of the aircraft. Investigators examined the wreckage of the F-CEVU and found no mechanical anomalies that could have contributed to the accident. The aircraft's weight and balance were confirmed to be within the manufacturer's specified limits.
Meteorological conditions at the time included a wind from 205° at 10 to 15 knots, moderate turbulence, and slope wind effects. The pilot was experienced, with 1,664 total flight hours, including 23 hours on this specific type. The towplane pilot reported that the tow and release appeared normal, though they noted the glider had released facing the terrain.
Findings
- The investigation was unable to establish the specific cause of the loss of control following the release.
- The glider was released on a trajectory facing the terrain, which placed it in close proximity to the slope immediately after decoupling from the towplane.