Accident Overview
On 22 August 1966, a Rhönlerche II glider registered HB-586 was involved in an accident at Schänis Airport in Switzerland. The aircraft was conducting a training flight, and the incident occurred during a winch launch.
Sequence of Events
During the winch launch procedure, the weak point (Sollbruchstelle) of the tow rope broke. Shortly after, the student pilot, facing significantly reduced visibility due to rain, initiated a left turn. As a result of insufficient airspeed, the glider stalled over the wing and descended, striking the ground with the left wing tip and fuselage.
Damage and Injuries
The glider sustained heavy damage, estimated at 60% of its value. The occupants (the pilot and any other persons on board) suffered minor injuries.
Findings
During the winch launch, the tow rope's breaking point failed. In conditions of heavily obstructed visibility due to rain, the student pilot executed a left turn. The glider, lacking sufficient speed, stalled over the wing and struck the ground with the left wing tip and fuselage.