Wickenburg, AZ, USA
N123KG
Burkhart Grob G102 Std Astir III
Same as Factual Information
The glider pilot was conducting a cross-country flight. Approximately 4 hours into the flight, the pilot experienced a loss of thermal lift. He reversed course and attempted to land on an uncharted airstrip. During the forced landing, wind gusts and a tailwind were present. On final approach, "a strong gust/windshear" moved the glider to the right side of the runway. The right wing impacted a cactus tree and sustained substantial damage. The pilot said that there were no mechanical malfunctions.
The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions which resulted in an inflight collision with a cactus tree while landing. The loss of thermal lift, tailwind, gusts, and tree were contributing factors to the accident.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
Aviation Accidents App
In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports
