What happened
On September 25, 2016, a Schemli-Hirth Ventus C, registration HB-1936, departed from Langenthal Airfield (LSPL) for a cross-country flight toward the Valais Alps. After being released from a tow aircraft near Fritzeflue, the pilot utilized thermal currents to reach an altitude of 2550 m/MSL. The flight proceeded past the Schratteflue and Hohgant areas, eventually crossing the Grünebergpass.
As the flight progressed, the pilot encountered deteriorating conditions. After reaching the southern side of the Niederhorn, usable thermals could no longer be found. The aircraft began a gliding descent around the Sigriswilgrat, eventually reaching the southern flank of the Honegg at approximately 1350 m/MSL. As the altitude continued to drop while flying through the Emmental region, the pilot reached the Aeschau area at roughly 850 m/MSL.
Due to the diminishing altitude, the pilot decided to perform an outlanding on a flat, mown field. To align with the landing site, the pilot executed a tight 180-degree left turn. However, the approach altitude was insufficient to clear a fence positioned across the approach path. The aircraft struck the fence, resulting in heavy damage to the leading edges of both wings and a broken cockpit canopy. The pilot sustained light injuries but was able to exit the aircraft unassisted.
Findings
- The decision to perform the outlanding was made too late in the flight.
- The low altitude at the time of the decision left the pilot with a limited selection of suitable landing fields.
- Insufficient altitude prevented the aircraft from clearing the fence obstacle during the final approach.