What happened
On June 20, 2001, at approximately 11:50 local time, a Schempp Hirth Ventus CM motorized glider, registration D-KIVP, was performing a local flight from Fayence aerodrome. During the takeoff roll on runway 10, the pilot adjusted the flaps to -1° and subsequently to +1° during the initial climb.
Shortly after reaching an altitude of approximately 30 feet, the aircraft began a progressive loss of height. In an attempt to return to the aerodrome, the pilot executed a 180-degree right turn. However, the descent continued, forcing the pilot to perform an emergency landing in a vineyard located along the extended centerline of runway 10. The aircraft sustained severe damage during the impact.
The investigation
Investigators examined the sequence of events and witness accounts to determine why the aircraft failed to maintain altitude. Witnesses observed that the airbrakes had extended progressively during the takeoff phase as the aircraft lost height. Notably, there was no observed change in engine RPM during this period.
Radio communications were attempted by ground personnel to alert the pilot to the deployment of the airbrakes. The pilot did not react to these transmissions and later stated he had not heard them. The investigation considered that the high noise levels inherent to this type of motorized glider during takeoff may have prevented the pilot from perceiving the radio warnings.