Casualties unknown

Glider Strikes Tree During Precautionary Landing After Exceeding Gliding Distance (N2724H)

Gt. Barrington, MA, US

On July 21, 1990, a Schweizer SGS-2-33A (registration N2724H) was involved in an aviation accident near Gt. Barrington, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM TREE DURING THE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. FACTOR WAS A LOSS OF THERMAL LIFT. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A glider with a private pilot and a CFI on board struck a tree and hit the ground nose first during a precautionary off-airport landing after the private pilot flew beyond gliding distance from the departure airport.

Incident Overview

A glider accident occurred during a flight with a private pilot at the controls in the front seat and a certified flight instructor (CFI) in the rear seat. The CFI stated that his role was to observe the private pilot's technique and judgment, with no formal instruction planned.

Sequence of Events

According to the CFI, the private pilot flew the glider beyond gliding distance from the departure airport. Although the CFI said he protested the pilot's action, he allowed it to happen. With the private pilot still on the controls, the glider was set up for a precautionary off-airport landing in a field. During the approach, the glider encountered an area of sink. Subsequently, the glider struck a tree, spun around, and hit the ground nose first.

Post-Accident Information

The source does not specify any injuries, the aircraft type, registration, date, or location of the accident. No further details are provided regarding damage or other circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jul 1990 Schweizer SGS-2-33A accident near Gt. Barrington, MA?

A glider with a private pilot and a CFI on board struck a tree and hit the ground nose first during a precautionary off-airport landing after the private pilot flew beyond gliding distance from the departure airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jul 1990 involved a Schweizer SGS-2-33A, registration N2724H, at Gt. Barrington, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM TREE DURING THE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. FACTOR WAS A LOSS OF THERMAL LIFT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23808. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.