Ka 6 crash during outlanding near Eschenbach due to stall
On June 6, 1960, a Ka 6 glider piloted by an experienced aviator crashed during an outlanding attempt near Eschenbach, Switzerland. The flight was part of a cross-country journey aimed at earning a silver badge. The pilot experienced difficulties as the aircraft stalled during the landing approach, possibly exacerbated by heat-induced discomfort. The glider was severely damaged, and the pilot sustained serious injuries. The investigation concluded that the crash resulted from the aircraft stalling below its minimum speed during the landing approach.
- Aerotow cross-country: The pilot aerotowed from Spreitenbach at 11:55 for a silver badge cross-country flight to Mollis, initially climbing normally and reaching about 1200 m above launch.
- Hot, fatiguing conditions: The flight took place in very hot, sultry weather with an estimated cockpit temperature of 30–40°C, and the pilot had recently shown signs of nervousness and heat intolerance.
- Low altitude near Eschenbach: After about an hour the glider reached the upper Lake Zurich area, began losing height, and was down to roughly 200–300 m south of Eschenbach.
- Decision to outland: South of Eschenbach, the pilot decided to abandon the cross-country task and land in the open 'Unterfeld' field, initiating four right-hand 360° turns and then a straight-in approach.
- Pilot unwell, impaired: During the approach the glider flew increasingly slowly contrary to normal practice, suggesting the pilot was affected by heat-related unwellness and reduced awareness.
- Low, slow turn to final: At about 20–30 m height the pilot likely initiated a left turn to final, during which the glider decelerated below stall speed and entered a steep bank.
- Crash - serious injury: The glider stalled and dropped off to the left from low height, impacting the 'Unterfeld' field near a hay wagon, severely damaging the aircraft and seriously injuring the pilot.