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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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April 12, 2013 · Schleicher Alexander Gmbh & ASH 26 E · N26EL

Tullahoma, TN

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 12, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Tullahoma, TN
Aircraft
Schleicher Alexander Gmbh & ASH 26 E
Tail Number
N26EL
Operator
Long Jeffrey A
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA13CA310

According to the pilot, he was on a one mile final approach to runway 36 at 800 feet with the glider engine stowed. He noted that the wind was changing and extended the flaps. The airspeed was between 55 and 60 knots when the airbrakes were extended to start a descent. The altitude was high and the glider began to descend at a rapid rate. The pilot closed the airbrakes to arrest the descent rate but realized he was to low and unable to land on the intended runway. The glider collided with a tree, and a post-accident examination revealed that the left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper use of wing spoilers during approach resulting in an altitude loss and collision with a tree.

Full Narrative

According to the pilot, he was on a one mile final approach to runway 36 at 800 feet with the glider engine stowed. He noted that the winds were changing and extended the flaps. The airspeed was between 55 and 60 knots when the airbrakes were extended to start a descent. The altitude was high and the glider began to descend at a rapid rate. The pilot closed the airbrakes to arrest the descent rate but realized he was too low and unable to land on the intended runway. The glider collided with a tree, and a post-accident examination revealed that the left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:30 CDT
Nearest AirportTullahoma Regional Airport (1nm)
Flight Plan FiledUnknown
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftSchleicher Alexander Gmbh & ASH 26 E
Tail NumberN26EL
Aircraft CategoryGli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorLong Jeffrey A
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsDiamond · AE50R · Reciprocating · 50
Seats1

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 68 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind270° @ 8 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point55 / 37 C
Altimeter29.92 inHg
Observation Time17:35
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data