Glider Collides with Perimeter Fence During Precautionary Landing

Casualties unknown • S29°1’36” E026°9’34” elevation 4 500ft, ZA

A pilot and passenger sustained injuries when an ASH 25 glider struck a 1.8m fence during an out landing near New Tempe Aerodrome.

What happened

On 4 January 2019, an ASH 25 Glider, registration ZS-GXX, was participating in a local pleasure flight launched from New Tempe Aerodrome (FATP) in the Free State Province. The glider was towed by a Cessna 182 and climbed to an altitude of 6,050ft AMSL. After the pilot released the tow rope, the aircraft began a steady descent.

While the pilot initially intended to return to FATP for a full-stop landing on Runway 1s, the aircraft lacked sufficient altitude to reach the runway under the prevailing weather conditions. Consequently, the pilot opted for an out landing in an open field. During this precautionary maneuver, the glider struck a 1.8m (6ft) high perimeter fence. The impact caused substantial damage to the wings, canopy, and cockpit area. The pilot sustained serious injuries and required an emergency medical airlift, while the passenger sustained minor injuries.

Probable cause

The glider struck a perimeter fence because it lacked the necessary altitude to reach the aerodrome runway, a situation exacerbated by a tailwind component and a lack of thermal lift.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2019-01-04 Alexander Schleicher, ASH 25 Glider accident near S29°1’36” E026°9’34” elevation 4 500ft, ZA?

A pilot and passenger sustained injuries when an ASH 25 glider struck a 1.8m fence during an out landing near New Tempe Aerodrome.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2019-01-04 involved a Alexander Schleicher, ASH 25 Glider, registration ZS-GXX, at S29°1’36” E026°9’34” elevation 4 500ft, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The glider struck a perimeter fence because it lacked the necessary altitude to reach the aerodrome runway, a situation exacerbated by a tailwind component and a lack of thermal lift.

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