Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's improper decision to land with a tailwind and his failure to maintain a proper approach, which resulted in a long landing, a runway overrun, and impact with a tree.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot of a power-glider reported that, while on final, he observed that his ground speed was higher than his indicated airspeed. Upon landing on the first ¼ of the 2700 ft runway, the powered-glider veered left and he corrected with left brake and rudder, and the power-glider overran the runway, and impacted a tree.
The powered-glider sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the powered-glider that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation station located 6 NM east of the accident reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was variable at 5 knots. The powered-glider was landing on runway 26. The pilot further reported that he was later told he touched down beyond halfway down the runway and the pilot recommended not landing with a tailwind.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA19CA241