Pilot Debrief

ROLLADEN SCHNEIDER LS-7WL near Tonasket, WA — 2025-06-11

Final reportWPR25LA177
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Date
2025-06-11
Location
Tonasket, WA, USA
Aircraft
ROLLADEN SCHNEIDER LS-7WL
Registration
N78AW
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The glider’s encounter with atmospheric conditions where the lift was not sufficient to maintain flight.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot in the glider, during a cross-country flight, promising cloud formations did not provide lift, as he anticipated. The glider did not have sufficient altitude to reach the airport, and a forced landing ensued. During the landing roll, the glider’s wingtip contacted the gravel surface and precipitated a ground-loop. The glider sustained substantial damage to the aft fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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