The Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation documented this incident under the file number BFU18-1015-CX, whereby the report offers a pure factual presentation without conclusions.
Course of the accident
The incident occurred at around 18:10 local time. The Cessna, which was being flown by an experienced 68-year-old pilot, had taken off shortly before for a sightseeing flight with three passengers from the nearby Stadtlohn airfield. At the same time, the pilot of the ASW 20, a 56-year-old experienced glider pilot, was circling to reduce altitude after a seven-hour cross-country flight in order to land at the Borken-Hoxfeld special landing field.
Collision dynamics
According to reports, the glider was in the field of view of the Cessna's occupants for at least one minute before a sudden change in trajectory occurred. The pilot of the Cessna stated that he had tried to increase the distance by correcting course, but was surprised when the glider changed direction and approached rapidly. Despite an evasive manoeuvre, a collision occurred. The glider pilot initiated a steep turn when he noticed the approaching motorised aircraft, but the collision occurred two seconds later.
Technical descriptions and condition of the aircraft
The Cessna 172 N, a robust training aircraft with a Lycoming O-360-A4M engine, recorded 13,145 operating hours after the last annual inspection. The ASW 20, a powerful glider with a wingspan of 15 metres, had been in the air for 2,578 hours at the time of the accident and had a collision warning device (FLARM) installed.
Meteorological conditions and aerodrome information
At the time of the accident, the Borken-Hoxfeld airfield offered good visibility with over 10 kilometres of visibility and light north-easterly winds. The airfield itself is located around 50 kilometres north of Düsseldorf and has a 740-metre-long grass runway.
Accident analysis and flight data
By analysing the glider's GPS data and the radar data from air traffic control, it was possible to reconstruct the flight path of both aircraft. The data showed that the glider was flying in a circle and collided with the Cessna when it changed direction.
Conclusion and preventive measures
Although the report does not draw any specific conclusions, the incident emphasises the importance of compliance with air traffic rules and the use of collision avoidance systems. In response to such incidents, recommendations are often published to improve safety protocols and raise awareness of risk management in airspace.
The investigation was conducted in accordance with international guidelines in order to prevent future accidents and improve aviation safety, without addressing issues of blame or liability.
Source references:
Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation
