Pilot Debrief

ROLLADEN-SCHNEIDER LS-4 near Jasper, TN — 2010-03-15

Final reportERA10CA176
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Date
2010-03-15
Location
Jasper, TN, USA
Airport
APT
Aircraft
ROLLADEN-SCHNEIDER LS-4
Registration
N465CB
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The inadequate in-flight planning by the glider pilot to intentionally cross a ridge at low altitude, resulting in the in-flight collision with trees.

NTSB narrative

The glider pilot stated that he intended on attempting the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) gold badge distance of 300 kilometers (186.42-mile) cross-country flight. He also stated that he felt pressure to fly first. The glider was towed aloft to 2,000 feet mean sea level, and released. He flew to the north side of a ridge and found lift, then flew south toward the airport in an effort to stay closer to it, intending on finding lift before proceeding. While approaching the ridge he encountered sink, and elected to cross the ridge. He crossed the ridge at approximately 300 feet above ground level and he could see the airport, but was unable to reach it. He maneuvered the glider for a landing into trees along the ridge. There was no preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction with the glider. The pilot later stated he should have landed in fields in the valley.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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