Glider crash at Swiss military airfield due to lack of updraft

Casualties unknown • Militärflugplatz, CH

A Ka 8 B glider sustained damage after crashing into trees during a difficult approach at a military airfield in the Alps.

What happened

On July 4, 1966, a Ka 8 B glider, registered as HB-663, was involved in an accident at a military airfield located in the Alpine region. While attempting to return to the takeoff area, the pilot encountered significant difficulties due to a lack of sufficient updraft. In the effort to complete a low-altitude approach over various obstacles, the aircraft drifted into a group of trees, resulting in damage to the glider.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the flight conditions and the pilot's attempt to navigate the terrain under poor soaring conditions. The commission examined the circumstances surrounding the approach over the obstacles and the environmental factors, specifically the absence of rising air currents necessary for the glider to maintain altitude.

Probable cause

The absence of necessary updrafts prevented the pilot from maintaining sufficient altitude to clear obstacles during the approach, leading to the aircraft striking trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1966-07-04 ALEXANDER SCHLEICHER OHG SEGELFLUGZEUGBAU K 8B accident near Militärflugplatz, CH?

A Ka 8 B glider sustained damage after crashing into trees during a difficult approach at a military airfield in the Alps.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1966-07-04 involved a ALEXANDER SCHLEICHER OHG SEGELFLUGZEUGBAU K 8B, registration HB-663, at Militärflugplatz, CH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The absence of necessary updrafts prevented the pilot from maintaining sufficient altitude to clear obstacles during the approach, leading to the aircraft striking trees.

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