Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The glider’s encounter with atmospheric conditions where the lift was not sufficient to maintain flight, resulting in an off-airport landing.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot stated that the glider was at 2,500 feet as he neared the completion of the second leg of his three-leg cross-country flight. He searched for lift and a suitable off-airport landing site simultaneously, in case he was unable to find lift. The glider encountered sink, and the pilot completed a landing to a soybean field. The glider touched down one-quarter mile prior to the point of intended landing and ground-looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot did not report any pre-impact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA11CA465