What happened
On May 14, 2000, at approximately 17:20 local time, a private LS 6-18w glider, registration HB-3119, was conducting a training flight near Schüpfheim, Switzerland. The flight originated in Birrfeld, following a known route through the Mittelland and Entlebuch regions. As thermal conditions deteriorated, the pilot decided to perform an off-field landing.
While attempting to maneuver over a field near the hamlet of Lehn, the pilot initiated a steep left-hand turn to dissipate altitude. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled flight phase. The left wing struck the ground, causing the aircraft to impact the nose-first and come to rest in a position 180 degrees opposite to its original direction of flight. The impact resulted in one fatality and one serious injury to the pilot.
The investigation
Investigators from the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (SUST) examined the wreckage and interviewed witnesses and the pilot. The investigation focused on the aircraft's flight path and the pilot's decision-making process regarding altitude and landing site selection.
Technical examination of the LS 6-18w revealed no mechanical failures in the control linkages, cables, or pulleys. The aircraft's weight and balance were within limits, and the flight controls were functional. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at an altitude of less to than 100 meters before the turn began. The investigation also noted that the selected landing area was covered in high grass and provided very little space for a landing maneuver.
Findings
- The pilot experienced a loss of control during a steep turn at very low altitude.
- There was a significant misjudgment of flying altitude.
- The pilot's decision to perform an off-field landing was made too late due to the altitude error.
- The aircraft likely dropped below its minimum required airspeed during the maneuver, leading to a loss of rudder effectiveness and a nose-down pitch.