What happened
On July 24, 2022, at approximately 11:02 UTC, a Pik 20 D glider was performing a winch launch at the Altlichtenwarth (LOAR) airfield in Austria. Shortly after lifting off the ground, the pilot experienced a loss of airspeed and noticed the aircraft banking heavily to the right.
In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot decided to terminate the winch tow at a low altitude, releasing the cable with the intention of landing on the remaining runway. To counteract the rightward bank, the pilot applied full left aileron and pushed the control stick forward to regain airspeed. However, these maneuvers caused the aircraft to enter an accelerated flight condition, leading to a stall. The glider subsequently crashed into a field located to the left of the runway, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and serious injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Board (SUB) examined the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the aircraft's maintenance history, the pilot's experience, and the meteorological conditions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permissible limits and that the glider's airworthiness documentation and insurance were valid.
Investigators also reviewed the mechanical components of the aircraft, including the control surfaces and linkages, finding no evidence of prior defects. The winch system, which was constructed by members of the local club, was found to have functioned correctly and provided the necessary performance. Meteorological data indicated that weather conditions were not a contributing factor to the accident.