What happened
On 15 July 2009, a pilot was conducting a closed-circuit cross-country flight from Birr Airfield, Co. Offaly, in an Eiriavion PIK-20D glider, registration G-EDMV. During the flight, weather conditions worsened as rain showers and squalls moved in, accompanied by increasing cloud cover. To avoid the deteriorating weather, the pilot decided to perform an unscheduled out-landing in a large grass field near Durrow, Co. Laois.
As the pilot approached the field, they did not realize the terrain featured a 1:20 downslope until the landing was already committed. The aircraft touched down at an estimated speed of 55 kts. To prevent the glider from colliding with a hedge and a boundary fence at the edge of the field, the pilot executed a ground loop to the right. While this maneuver prevented a collision with the obstacles, the aircraft's composite fuselage sustained significant damage, including cracks along the spine.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's approach to the landing site and the environmental factors present at the time of the accident. Investigators examined the weather conditions, noting that the presence of squalls and rain had likely reduced the effectiveness of the aircraft's drum brake on the main wheel. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's landing speed and the physical characteristics of the chosen landing site.
Findings
- The pilot failed to adequately assess the landing site prior to touchdown, specifically failing to identify the downslope nature of the field.
- The available landing distance was insufficient due to the downslope terrain, which was further complicated by a high touchdown speed and reduced braking effectiveness on the wet grass.
- The pilot's decision to ground loop the aircraft was a deliberate action taken to avoid a more serious impact with the field'boundary fence and hedge.
- The aircraft sustained significant structural damage to the fuselage during the ground loop maneuver.