LET L 33 SOLO near Wakefield, VA — 2011-08-17

Probable cause

The glider’s encounter with atmospheric conditions where the lift was not sufficient to maintain flight, resulting in an off-airport landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that the glider was at 2,500 feet as he searched for lift and a suitable off-airport landing site simultaneously. Shortly thereafter, the glider lost lift, and the pilot landed in a soybean field. During the landing, the glider touched down 1/4 mile short of the planned touchdown point and ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Dragged wing/rotor/float/other · Landing

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Meteorology Surface Observationsother
• Structures 7 - Damage Assessmentother
• Photo - Wing Damagephotos

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