Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER SGS 2-33A near Elmira, NY — 2023-10-28

Final reportERA24LA029
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Date
2023-10-28
Location
Elmira, NY, USA
Airport
4NY8
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER SGS 2-33A
Registration
N17903
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to attain a proper glidepath for a landing on the intended runway, which resulted in an off-airport landing and impact with soft terrain.

NTSB narrative

At the conclusion of the glider flight, the pilot entered the left airport traffic pattern for landing, but the wind conditions had changed, so he maneuvered to the right traffic pattern. While on approach, the glider was too high, so he extended the dive brakes and attempted to slip the glider, but he was unable to lose enough altitude for a safe landing on the runway, and elected to land on an adjacent field. During touchdown, the nose of the glider dug into the soft terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot stated there were no preimpact mechanical issues that precluded normal operation or performance and that he was “just too high” and unable to safely land on the runway.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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