Accident Details
Date
Sunday, June 2, 2013
NTSB Number
CEN13CA336
Location
Corona, NM
Event ID
20130611X12722
Coordinates
34.973609, -105.993057
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while ridge-soaring in gusty wind conditions.
Aircraft Information
Registration
N62TW
Make
SCHEMPP-HIRTH
Serial Number
140
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Registered Owner (Historical)
Name
SALE REPORTED
Address
2922 E MARCO POLO RD
Status
Deregistered
City
PHOENIX
State / Zip Code
AZ 85050-3521
Country
United States
Analysis
The pilot was ridge-soaring in his glider near a mountain peak in gusty wind conditions, when he was blown into trees. The glider sustained substantial damage to the airframe and wings. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the glider. He said that he was unfamiliar with the terrain and the wind gusts and down-drafts were higher than he anticipated.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN13CA336