Pilot Debrief

LET L-23 SUPER BLANIK near Pittsfield, PA — 2021-05-31

Final reportERA21LA242
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Date
2021-05-31
Location
Pittsfield, PA, USA
Airport
P15
Aircraft
LET L-23 SUPER BLANIK
Registration
N912B
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The student pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing and loss of directional control.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot had completed a training flight to pattern altitude just prior to the accident flight with his flight instructor. After that flight, the glider was towed to 3,000 feet above ground level and released from the tow rope so the student pilot could get some solo practice. The total duration of the solo flight was approximately 1.5 hours. Nothing unusual occurred with the flight until the student pilot turned on to the final leg of the traffic pattern for landing. The glider descended quicker than usual as the student pilot had the airbrakes (wing spoilers) extended. The pilot also stated that developed a leg cramp in his right leg on final approach. The pilot subsequently landed the glider “hard” and after touchdown, the pilot lost directional control. The glider then veered off the left side of the runway, struck a runway light and a drainage culvert with the right wing leading edge and lower airbrake, and then struck a taxiway light with the left wing. The glider’s right wing and fuselage were substantially damaged.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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