Aviation Accident Summary LAX93LA031

MOKULEIA, HI, USA

Aircraft #1

N5761S

SCHWEIZER SGS 2-32

Analysis

SHORTLY AFTER BEING RELEASED FROM AN AERO TOW, THE GLIDER ENCOUNTERED STRONG SINK CONDITIONS. THE PILOT IMMEDIATELY RETURNED TO THE DEPARTURE AIRPORT AND EXECUTED A PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. THE STRONG SINK CONDITIONS CONTINUED THROUGHOUT THE APPROACH. THE PILOT WAS UNABLE TO FLARE THE GLIDER AND IT SUSTAINED A HARD LANDING.

Probable Cause and Findings

THE FLIGHT'S ENCOUNTER WITH UNFORECASTED UNFAVORABLE WINDS (LOSS OF THERMAL LIFT) AND DOWNDRAFTS WHILE ON FINAL APPROACH TO THE RUNWAY.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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