SCHWEIZER SGS 2-32
Warner Springs, CA — May 30, 2009
Event Information
| Date | May 30, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR09CA272 |
| Event ID | 20090601X55651 |
| Location | Warner Springs, CA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 33.30778, -116.58389 |
| Airport | Warner Springs |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | SCHWEIZER |
| Model | SGS 2-32 |
| Category | GLI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 3 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a tree while maneuvering in flight.
Full Narrative
After being towed to altitude, the pilot of the glider began soaring above a mountain peak. After making several circular passes over the peak the glider began to descend, and the pilot initiated a turn to an adjacent ridge. As he passed over the ridge, he felt the glider sink and he initiated a descending right turn. During the turn, the pilot felt the glider "jolt" and yaw to the left. He verified that the flight controls functioned correctly, and initiated an uneventful straight-in approach and landing at the departure airport. Postaccident inspection revealed damage consistent with an in-flight collision with a tree. The glider sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar and aileron during the collision.
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.