Rhönlerche II strikes power line during approach at Netstal amid strong wind training flight

On October 23, 1960, a glider accident occurred during a training flight near Netstal, Switzerland. The flight instructor and student launched the Rhönlerche II HB-666 despite unfavorable Föhn wind conditions. During the approach, the glider encountered strong crosswinds and collided with a power line, resulting in a crash. The aircraft was heavily damaged, and the student sustained minor injuries, while the instructor remained unharmed. The investigation highlighted the risks of continuing training under unsuitable weather conditions and the inexperience of the pilot in local conditions. The investigation concluded that the accident was caused by the continuation of training operations in unsuitable wind conditions by a pilot who was not sufficiently familiar with the local environment. Recommendations were made to ensure better assessment of weather conditions before flight operations.