On August 16, 2025, a LS 4 was involved in an aviation accident near nahe des Flugplatzes Lanzen-Turnau, Steiermark, AT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Updrafts and downdrafts (gusts) due to the approaching thunderstorm. This summary draws on records from the Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Authority (SUB).
A pilot flying a glider type LS 4 collided with a meadow about 150 meters short of runway 25 threshold during landing approach at Lanzen Turnau (LOGL), resulting in serious injury to the pilot and destruction of the aircraft.
Accident
On approach to runway 25 at Lanzen Turnau airfield (LOGL), a glider descended too low and struck a meadow approximately 150 meters before the runway threshold. The impact occurred during the landing phase.
Aircraft and Injuries
The aircraft, a glider of type LS 4, was destroyed in the collision. The sole occupant, the pilot, sustained serious injuries. Minor damage to the crop field was also reported.
Probable Cause
Investigators identified updrafts and downdrafts (gusts) associated with an approaching thunderstorm as the probable contributing factors to the accident.