On September 7, 1990, a Schleicher ASK-21 (registration N21SX) operated by Memphis Soaring Society, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Memphis, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The glider pilot did not maintain sufficient altitude to reach the airstrip. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A glider pilot, returning to the airstrip after 1.5 hours of flight, attempted an off-field landing due to insufficient altitude. The left wing struck a tree, causing loss of control and a crash.
Incident Details
A glider pilot was returning to the airstrip for landing after approximately 1.5 hours of flight. The pilot reported that he did not maintain sufficient altitude to reach the intended landing area. Consequently, he elected to land the glider in an open field.
Sequence of Events
During the landing approach, the left wing of the glider collided with a tree located adjacent to the field. The impact caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft. The glider subsequently crashed onto the field in a nose-low attitude.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the glider prior to or during the event. The accident involved only the glider; no other aircraft or structures were mentioned.
Probable cause
The glider pilot did not maintain sufficient altitude to reach the airstrip.
What happened in the 7 Sept 1990 Schleicher ASK-21 accident near Memphis, TN?
A glider pilot, returning to the airstrip after 1.5 hours of flight, attempted an off-field landing due to insufficient altitude. The left wing struck a tree, causing loss of control and a crash.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Sept 1990 involved a Schleicher ASK-21, registration N21SX, operated by Memphis Soaring Society, Inc, at Memphis, TN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The glider pilot did not maintain sufficient altitude to reach the airstrip.
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