Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s inability to maintain sufficient altitude after the glider encountered downdrafts during the approach, which resulted in the glider striking trees.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
According to the glider pilot, he remained airborne for about 90 minutes before encountering downdrafts while pursuing a cumulous cloud system. He immediately attempted to return to the airport but had to select an off-airport landing site instead. During approach, the glider had "insufficient altitude" to clear trees on the west side of the field and collided with branches before impacting the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left-wing spar.
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider 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# GAA18CA263