Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER SGS 1 26 near Springfield, VT — 2018-05-05

Final reportGAA18CA263
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Date
2018-05-05
Location
Springfield, VT, USA
Airport
VSF
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER SGS 1 26
Registration
N17909
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain sufficient altitude after the glider encountered downdrafts during the approach, which resulted in the glider striking trees.

NTSB narrative

According to the glider pilot, the glider remained airborne for about 90 minutes before encountering downdrafts while he was pursuing a cumulous cloud system. He immediately attempted to return to the airport but had to select an off-airport landing site instead. During approach, the glider had "insufficient altitude" to clear trees on the west side of the field and collided with branches before impacting the ground. The glider sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left-wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no 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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