What happened
On April 20, 2014, an L33 SÓLO glider, registration OK-4408, operated by Aeroklub Česká Lípa, performed a landing in terrain near Saupsdorf, Germany. The flight was part of a training program involving high-speed cross-country flight. After being unable to find sufficient thermal lift along the planned route, the pilot decided to deviate westward and eventually opted for a landing in a field.
The pilot selected a suitable landing area and executed a standard approach. During the final stages of the approach, at approximately 30 meters AGL, the pilot identified a terrain depression (a slope) within the intended landing zone. In an attempt to extend the landing distance to reach flatter ground beyond the slope, the pilot applied air brakes. This maneuver resulted in a higher approach speed and a late leveling of the aircraft, causing the glider to bounce upon contact with the ground. The subsequent hard landing caused the aircraft to strike the terrain with its forward fuselage.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the flight data from the onboard COLIBRI II flight recorder and analyzed the aircraft's condition. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified, medically fit, and had sufficient experience in both cross-country flight and landing in unpaved terrain. The investigation also reviewed meteorological reports, which indicated that while thermal conditions were insufficient for the planned mission, the wind and visibility were suitable for the landing.
Findings
- The pilot attempted to use air brakes to reach a flatter area of the field, which led to an increased approach speed.
- The aircraft experienced a bounce upon touchdown due to the higher speed and the pilot's reaction to the terrain.
- The pilot's subsequent control inputs following the bounce were inadequate to prevent a hard impact.
- The hard landing following a bounce caused significant structural damage, including deformations to the forward and rear fuselage, skin punctures, and loosened rivets at the wing roots.
- The pilot sustained no injuries during the event.