What happened
The aircraft was launched via aero tow to an altitude of 3,000 feet mean sea level. After being released approximately five miles from the departure airport, the pilot engaged in thermaling for roughly five minutes. The pilot then descended to 2,300 feet mean sea level and turned back toward the airfield.
During the return flight, the glider encountered heavy sink conditions. The pilot lacked sufficient altitude to reach the runway. An attempt was made to stretch the glide path to extend range. The glider stalled at an altitude of 20 feet above ground level, approximately 100 yards from the airport.
The investigation
The examination focused on the flight dynamics and environmental conditions leading to the stall. The pilot's inability to maintain adequate altitude due to meteorological factors was noted. No mechanical failures were identified as contributing factors.