Pilot Debrief

SCHLEICHER ASW-27 near Middletown, CA — 2013-04-12

Final reportWPR13CA218
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Date
2013-04-12
Location
Middletown, CA, USA
Aircraft
SCHLEICHER ASW-27
Registration
N503CW
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The glider’s encounter with atmospheric lift conditions not sufficient to maintain flight, which resulted in a forced landing on rough terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during his return to the airport, the glider encountered heavy downdrafts. Unable to reach the airport, he executed an off-airport landing to a field. During the landing on rough terrain, the glider ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the tail and wings. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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