Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER SGS 2-32 near Warner Springs, CA — 2011-08-28

Final reportWPR11CA411
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Date
2011-08-28
Location
Warner Springs, CA, USA
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER SGS 2-32
Registration
N5840V
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate altitude to clear a ridgeline while maneuvering over a mountainous area.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, his release from the tow plane was normal. He released the tow rope at 7,100 feet mean sea level (msl) while over a 6,500-foot msl mountaintop for a planned 1/2-hour sightseeing flight. Little to no indication of lift was noted in the area, and the pilot reversed course. When the glider had descended to 6,900 feet msl and was continuing to rapidly descend, the pilot again reversed course toward lower elevation terrain. The glider’s altitude was insufficient to clear a ridgeline. On the side of the mountain, about 6,400 feet msl, the glider impacted rocks, trees, and shrubs, which resulted in the glider’s wings breaking.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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