Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA434

Durango, CO, USA

Aircraft #1

N592JD

PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD-59

Analysis

The glider pilot entered a right downwind and turned right base, then to final to land north at the airport. He noticed the tow plane on the runway taking off to the south. The pilot elected to make an abrupt right 360 degree turn at about 80 feet above ground level and contacted trees. The glider was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious injuries.

Factual Information

The glider pilot entered a right downwind and turned right base, then to final to land north at the Airport. He noticed the tow plane on the runway taking off south bound. The pilot elected to make an abrupt right 360 degree turn at about 80 feet above ground level and contacted trees. The glider was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious non life threatening injuries.

Probable Cause and Findings

The glider pilot's decision to perform a low-altitude 360-degree turn while on final approach to land.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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