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NTSB Report
May 5, 2018 · Schweizer SGS 1 26 E · N17909
Springfield, VT
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 5, 2018
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Springfield, VT
Aircraft
Schweizer SGS 1 26 E (1972)
Tail Number
N17909
Operator
New England Soaring Association
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA18CA263
According to the glider pilot, the glider remained airborne for about 90 minutes before encountering downdrafts while he was 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 glider 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.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s inability to maintain sufficient altitude after the glider encountered downdrafts during the approach, which resulted in the glider striking trees.
Full Narrative
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.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time14:30 EDT
Nearest AirportHartness State (Springfield) (0nm SW)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftSchweizer SGS 1 26 E
Tail NumberN17909
Aircraft CategoryGli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorNew England Soaring Association
Operating RulePart 91
Engines0
Seats1
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 78 · Second Class · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindGusting 15 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point70 F / 36 C
Altimeter30.00 inHg
Observation Time18:54
Weather SourceWFAC