Schweizer SGS233
Warner Springs, CA — August 14, 2020
Event Information
| Date | August 14, 2020 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR20CA273 |
| Event ID | 20200815X20002 |
| Location | Warner Springs, CA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 33.28444, -116.66972 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Schweizer |
| Model | SGS233 |
| Category | GLI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's inability to maintain altitude due to a loss of thermal lift, which resulted in an off-airport landing.
Full Narrative
The glider pilot reported that, during the return flight to the airport, he encountered more downdrafts than expected and did not have enough altitude to reach the airport. He selected an area for the forced landing where during the landing roll on the rough terrain, both wings sustained substantial damage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions 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.