SCHWEIZER SGS 1 26
Springfield, VT — May 5, 2018
Event Information
| Date | May 5, 2018 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA263 |
| Event ID | 20180507X81650 |
| Location | Springfield, VT |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 43.34361, -72.51722 |
| Airport | HARTNESS STATE (SPRINGFIELD) |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | SCHWEIZER |
| Model | SGS 1 26 |
| Category | GLI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
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.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.