Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA19CA479

Mackay, ID, USA

Aircraft #1

N274JM

Schleicher ASW 27

Analysis

The pilot reported that, while returning to the airport, the glider descended faster than expected, so he diverted to a field for landing. The glider encountered a wind gust, and the left wing hit the ground. The glider then ground looped to the left. The glider sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and right aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the wind was from 140°, between about 10 and 20 knots, and gusting. The pilot landed the glider to the south.

Factual Information

The pilot of the glider reported that, while returning to the airport, the glider descended faster than expected, so he diverted to an alfalfa field for landing. The glider encountered a gust of wind and the left wing "suddenly" hit the ground. The glider then ground looped to the left. The glider sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage and right aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the wind was from 140° at 10 to 20 knots and gusting. The pilot landed the glider to the south.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain lateral control of the glider during landing in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in the left wing striking the ground and a subsequent ground loop.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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