Slingsby T50 Skylark 4, BGA1116 and Schempp-Hirth Ventus cT, BGA3259, 26 April 2004

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Pre-1997 uncategorised monthly report
• Date of occurrence: 26 April 2004
• Aircraft type: Slingsby T50 Skylark 4 Schempp-Hirth Ventus cT
• Registration: BGA1116 BGA3259

Slingsby T50 Skylark 4, BGA1116 and Schempp-Hirth Ventus cT, BGA3259

Summary:

The Ventus and Skylark gliders collided while gliding at approximately 4,000 feet agl a short distance west of Lasham airfield. Both were severely damaged. Visibility was generally in excess of 5 km, but was variable and decreased with height. The investigation concluded that the gliders had approached each other about 28? off head-on, probably while both were flying straight and level. Following the collision, the pilot of the Skylark parachuted to the ground with no injuries. The pilot of the Ventus was injured in the collision and was still in his aircraft when the main wreckage impacted the ground. One recommendation has been made, for a study to assess means of improving light aircraft conspicuity and for the adoption of measures likely to be effective.

Download report:

BGA1116 and BGA3259-5-05.pdf (187.07 kb)

Published 10 December 2014