What happened
On June 11, 1969, a pilot participating in a gliding camp near Schupfart, Switzerland, embarked on a planned 50 km cross-country flight toward Grenchen. After releasing from the tow plane at an altitude of 400 meters, the pilot initially gained altitude using thermals. However, as the flight progressed, the aircraft's altitude steadily decreased.
While flying near Lostorf, the pilot encountered significant challenges. Witnesses observed the Mucha Standard glider, registration HB-8037, flying at a very low altitude. The pilot appeared to be attempting an outlanding in a field. During the approach, the aircraft flew over a 55-meter-high high-voltage power line. Upon encountering a second, lower power line, the pilot executed a sharp right-hand turn to avoid the obstacle and attempt a landing with a tailwind. During this tight maneuver, the aircraft lost speed, effectively stalled, and plummeted vertically into the ground.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted in collaboration with the Solothurn Cantonal Police, examined the aircraft, the pilot's experience, and the flight conditions. Technical analysis of the wreckage showed no evidence of mechanical failure; the control linkages and flight surfaces were intact, and the deformations observed were consistent with the impact. The pilot's blood tests showed no alcohol consumption, and no medical issues were identified as contributing factors. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight logs, noting that while the pilot was qualified, this was his first cross-country flight and he had very limited experience with outlandings.
Findings
- The pilot made the decision to perform an outlanding too late, leaving insufficient altitude to properly plan the approach or select suitable terrain.
- The aircraft was flying at an extremely low altitude, passing only 10 to 20 meters above a high-voltage power line.
- The pilot attempted a sharp turn to avoid a second power line while flying into a headwind, which caused the aircraft to lose airspeed and stall.
- The pilot's lack of experience in cross-country flight operations and limited experience with outlandings may have contributed to the poor flight tactics employed during the emergency.