SCHLEICHER ALEXANDER GMBH & CO ASH 26 E
Tullahoma, TN — April 12, 2013
Event Information
| Date | April 12, 2013 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA13CA310 |
| Event ID | 20130702X20438 |
| Location | Tullahoma, TN |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.38000, -86.24667 |
| Airport | Tullahoma Regional Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | SCHLEICHER ALEXANDER GMBH & CO |
| Model | ASH 26 E |
| 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 improper use of wing spoilers during approach resulting in an altitude loss and collision with a tree.
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, he was on a one mile final approach to runway 36 at 800 feet with the glider engine stowed. He noted that the winds were changing and extended the flaps. The airspeed was between 55 and 60 knots when the airbrakes were extended to start a descent. The altitude was high and the glider began to descend at a rapid rate. The pilot closed the airbrakes to arrest the descent rate but realized he was too low and unable to land on the intended runway. The glider collided with a tree, and a post-accident examination revealed that the left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane 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.