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NTSB Report

May 14, 2013 · Schweizer SGS 1-23H-15 · N9860E

Yadkinville, NC

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 14, 2013
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Yadkinville, NC
Aircraft
Schweizer SGS 1-23H-15
Tail Number
N9860E
Operator
Cummings Roger W
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA13CA245

The pilot reported that he was conducting a local glider flight. After soaring for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, the pilot began to return to the departure airport. The pilot stated that the glider encountered a downdraft that would not allow him to return safely and he elected to land in a hay field about 3 miles northwest of the departure airport. The pilot further stated the approach was normal and at the "proper speed". While turning onto final approach the glider's right wing clipped a tree and spun around clockwise into trees. Postaccident examination of the glider revealed that the left and right wing leading edges incurred substantial damage due to impact with trees, and about three feet of the left wing tip was sheared off. Both spoilers were found in the full extended position. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper altitude management while maneuvering for an off-airport landing, which resulted in a collision with trees.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that he was conducting a local glider flight. After soaring for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, the pilot began to return to the departure airport. The pilot stated that the glider encountered a downdraft that would not allow him to return safely and he elected to land in a hay field about 3 miles northwest of the departure airport. The pilot further stated the approach was normal and at the "proper speed". While turning onto final approach the glider's right wing clipped a tree and spun around clockwise into trees. Postaccident examination of the glider revealed that the left and right wing leading edges incurred substantial damage due to impact with trees, and about three feet of the left wing tip was sheared off. Both spoilers were found in the full extended position. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:40 EDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftSchweizer SGS 1-23H-15
Tail NumberN9860E
Aircraft CategoryGli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorCummings Roger W
Operating RulePart 91
Engines0
Seats1

People & Injuries

Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 65 · Third Class · Minor

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind190° @ 7 kt, gusting 9 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point70 F / 36 C
Altimeter30.12 inHg
Observation Time19:54
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data