What happened
On May 22, 2014, a single-seat LS4 glider was performing a winch launch from the Niederöblarn airfield in Austria. Shortly after the aircraft crossed the Enns River, the pilot performed a series of checks, including verifying the landing gear lock and parachute security. During this process, the pilot noticed that the tow rope had disconnected from the aircraft's nose coupling.
At an altitude of approximately 763 meters (113 meters Aertial), the pilot identified a nearby field for an emergency landing. While attempting the landing at a speed of approximately 86 km/h and an altitude of only 90 cm above the ground, the left wing struck a hay bale located in the field. The impact caused the aircraft to rotate around its vertical axis, eventually coming to a halt about 57 meters from the initial point of contact. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft independently and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the Austrian SUB, reconstructed the flight sequence using pilot statements, eyewitness accounts, and data from the aircraft's FLARM and navigation computer. The examination of the wreckage revealed significant damage, including a near-separation of the left wing at the brake flap area and a fracture in the fuselage tube just forward of the vertical stabilizer. The cockpit canopy was also heavily damaged.
Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, weight and balance, and the pilot's credentials. The investigation also reviewed meteorological conditions, which were found to be favorable for flight, and the physical condition of the landing site.