Casualties unknown

Glider Damaged in Forced Landing After Premature Release (N99805)

Warren, MN, US

On May 20, 1982, a Blanik L-13 (registration N99805) operated by N.d. State College was involved in an aviation accident near Warren, MN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A glider pilot released prematurely from tow due to control difficulties, then conducted a forced landing after being unable to reach the destination. A wing strike with terrain caused substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A glider pilot experienced difficulty controlling the aircraft during a tow and released prematurely. The intended destination was 12 to 14 miles away, with headwinds of 10 to 15 knots. After determining that the destination could not be reached, the pilot selected a road for a forced landing because local fields were soft and muddy.

Diverted Landing Attempt

At a low altitude, the tow pilot warned of a truck on the selected road. The glider pilot then diverted to a nearby field. During the landing attempt, the glider's wing collided with terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02926. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.