Wirestrike involving a Rolladen-Scheneider Flugzeugbau GmbH LS 4, VH-XOK, 35 km north of Corowa Aerodrome, New South Wales, on 26 February 1996

Due to poor lift conditions the pilot was forced to make an outlanding. He selected what appeared to be a suitable paddock and noted there was a powerline running parallel to the selected landing direction. Late on final approach, the glider hit another powerline that the pilot had not seen. This line was a three-wire spur line crossing the landing path at 90 degrees and originating from an area of trees.

Significant Factors

The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident:

1 The pilot had to make an outlanding due to poor lift conditions.

2 The pilot did not see the powerline before his aircraft collided with it.