SCHLEICHER ASW-27
Middletown, CA — April 12, 2013
Event Information
| Date | April 12, 2013 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR13CA218 |
| Event ID | 20130506X24234 |
| Location | Middletown, CA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 38.77195, -122.57528 |
| Airport | Crazy Creek Glider Port |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | SCHLEICHER |
| Model | ASW-27 |
| 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 glider’s encounter with atmospheric lift conditions not sufficient to maintain flight, which resulted in a forced landing on rough terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that during his return to the airport, the glider encountered heavy downdrafts. Unable to reach the airport, he elected to execute an off airport landing to a field. During the landing on rough terrain, the glider ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the tailboom and wings. The pilot reported no preimpact 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.