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NTSB Report
April 12, 2013 · Schleicher ASW-27 · N503CW
Middletown, CA
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 12, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Middletown, CA
Aircraft
Schleicher ASW-27
Tail Number
N503CW
Operator
Westerinen Charles J
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR13CA218
The pilot reported that during his return to the airport, the glider encountered heavy downdrafts. Unable to reach the airport, he executed an off-airport landing to a field. During the landing on rough terrain, the glider ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the tail and wings. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The glider’s encounter with atmospheric lift conditions not sufficient to maintain flight, which resulted in a forced landing on rough terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that during his return to the airport, the glider encountered heavy downdrafts. Unable to reach the airport, he elected to execute an off airport landing to a field. During the landing on rough terrain, the glider ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the tailboom and wings. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time13:15 PDT
Nearest AirportCrazy Creek Glider Port (2nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftSchleicher ASW-27
Tail NumberN503CW
Aircraft CategoryGli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorWesterinen Charles J
Operating RulePart 91
Engines0
Seats1
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 74 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind160° @ 3 kt
Visibility8 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point70 F / 48
Altimeter29.87 inHg
Observation Time19:53
Weather SourceWFAC