Ka 4 collision with tree during approach at Fricktal Schupfart airfield

On August 7, 1969, an Alexander Schleicher Ka 4 Rhönlerche II was involved in an incident at Fricktal Schupfart Airfield in Switzerland. During the approach phase, the aircraft collided with a tree due to an unsuitable flight tactic, as confirmed by the official report. The pilot was unharmed, but the glider sustained significant damage. The incident was reviewed and the investigation report was approved by the authorities.

1. Approach to landing: The Rhönlerche II HB-623 was on approach to land at Fricktal-Schupfart airfield.
2. Unsuitable flight tactic: During the approach the pilot used an unsuitable flight tactic that resulted in an excessively low flight path.
3. Approach too low: Because of the unsuitable tactic, the glider continued the landing approach at a height too low to safely clear obstacles.
4. Collision with tree: While still on approach, the low-flying glider collided with a tree near the airfield.
5. Crash - no injury: The glider was heavily damaged in the collision with the tree, but the pilot remained uninjured.