Glider collision during landing at airport

Casualties unknown • Hemet, CA, US

A student pilot's glider struck two parked aircraft while attempting to land on a dirt and grass area between parallel runways.

What happened

A non-certificated student pilot was performing a landing in a glider on a dirt and grass area situated between two parallel runways. Due to recent rainfall, new grass had grown in the landing area, creating a pattern that caused confusion for the pilot, who had not landed at this airport within the previous 30 days.

Seeking what appeared to be the proper landing zone, the pilot touched down on an area of bare ground. However, the aircraft was positioned too close to several parked gliders. During the landing roll out, the right wing tip of the student's glider struck the left wing of a parked glider. The impact caused the aircraft to pivot, leading to a second collision with the left side of another parked glider.

The pilot was not injured following the incident. While no injuries were reported, all three gliders involved sustained substantial damage.

Probable cause

The pilot's confusion regarding the landing area due to new grass growth led to an improper touchdown position too close to parked aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-04-08 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Hemet, CA?

A student pilot's glider struck two parked aircraft while attempting to land on a dirt and grass area between parallel runways.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-04-08 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N2032T, operated by Michael & Julie Venable, at Hemet, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's confusion regarding the landing area due to new grass growth led to an improper touchdown position too close to parked aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16807. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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