What happened
On October 21, 2009, at approximately 14:17, a glider was performing a tow flight from the Zeltweg military airfield (LOXZ) for private purposes. The glider was being towed by a powered aircraft in a standard tow configuration. During the climb phase of the flight, the pilot reported that the aircraft was experiencing technical difficulties.
In response to the reported issue, the pilot disconnected the glider from the tow plane. While attempting to maintain control of the aircraft and initiating an emergency landing, the glider struck the ground within the airfield perimeter. The impact caused serious injuries to the pilot and resulted in the total destruction of the glider. Minor damage was also sustained by the airfield's perimeter fencing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances leading to the loss of control and the subsequent impact. Investigators examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the procedures followed by the pilot prior to departure. The inquiry specifically looked into the configuration of the flight controls and the adequacy of the pre-flight inspections performed on the day of the accident.