Pilot Debrief

ROLLADEN-SCHNEIDER LS8-18 near Fairfield, PA — 2009-04-23

Final reportERA09CA259
Sign in to save
Date
2009-04-23
Location
Fairfield, PA, USA
Airport
W73
Aircraft
ROLLADEN-SCHNEIDER LS8-18
Registration
N818FM
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed while turning on to final approach, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.

NTSB narrative

According to witnesses, the glider was towed toward the mountains west of the airport, where the cable was released. The glider circled for about 10 minutes, but failed to gain lift. The glider proceeded to the south end of the airport, where it continued to circle and lose altitude. Approximately 400 yards short of the approach end of Runway 33, the glider made a steep left turn to enter the final approach, when it "suddenly snapped 90 degrees, wings vertical, then nosed into the ground." The tow pilot stated that the area where the accident occurred was known for its turbulent conditions. Winds at the time were recorded at an airport 18 miles to the west, from 290 degrees at 21 knots, gusting to 24 knots. The pilot was sent an NTSB Form 6120.1, Pilot/Operator report, but had not completed it at the time of this report.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

Related mishaps