Ka 6 incident during field landing near Petit-Martel, Switzerland
On June 3, 1966, an Alexander Schleicher Ka 6 CR experienced an incident during a field landing near Petit-Martel, Switzerland. The pilot, while attempting to land, noticed a concealed post in the tall grass at the last moment. In an effort to avoid the obstacle, the pilot maneuvered to the left. However, the low wing was impeded by vegetation, causing the glider to lose control and crash into the field. Fortunately, the pilot was unharmed in the incident.
- Field landing approach: During an off-field landing attempt, the pilot was on final approach to land the Ka-6 in a field with tall grass near Petit-Martel.
- Post seen late: While committed to the field landing, the pilot noticed at the last moment a post hidden by the high grass directly ahead.
- Left avoidance turn: To avoid the suddenly perceived obstacle, the pilot attempted to veer left during the landing roll or flare.
- Wing catches vegetation: During the avoidance maneuver, the low wing was slowed by the tall vegetation, contacted the ground, and the pilot lost control of the glider.
- Crash - no injury: The glider crashed in the field and was damaged, but the pilot was uninjured.