Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilots misjudgment of the altitude and distance to the runway.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On June 23, 1996, at 1410 central daylight time, a Schweizer 2-33, glider, N1219S, sustained substantial damage when it impacted terrain during an off airport landing in Union, Illinois. The solo pilot reported no injuries. The personal,14 CFR Part 91 flight originated in Union, Illinois a few minutes prior to the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed.
In his written statement, the pilot reported "during final approach it was apparent the glider would not clear obstructions near the end of the runway. An off field landing was attempted. During the landing the wing tip struck the ground...."
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector who examined the airplane reported that the right wing was fractured and the fuselage was buckled behind the cabin area.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI96LA214