N77MA

Substantial
None

EIRIAVION OY PIK 20BS/N: 20127C

Accident Details

Date
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
NTSB Number
WPR09CA389
Location
Marana, AZ
Event ID
20090810X74615
Coordinates
32.388053, -111.421669
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

A loss of lift that resulted in an off-airport landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N77MA
Make
EIRIAVION OY
Serial Number
20127C
Year Built
1976
Model / ICAO
PIK 20B

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
UMBERGER MARTIN S
Address
1440 W JEROME AVE
Status
Deregistered
City
MESA
State / Zip Code
AZ 85202-5802
Country
United States

Analysis

While returning from a cross-country glider flight, the pilot reported losing lift and encountering downdrafts along his route. He elected to make an off-airport landing. During the landing approach, the glider impacted the top of a tree at approximately 12 feet above the ground; subsequently, it impacted terrain on the chin of its' fuselage and came to rest in an upright position. The force of the impact resulted in the separation of both wings. Examination of the glider revealed that the fuselage, canopy, and wings were structurally damaged.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR09CA389