On October 26, 1991, a Schweizer SGS 2-33A (registration N34396) operated by Ridge Valley Soaring Club was involved in an aviation accident near Waynesboro, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE INSTRUCTOR (CFI). CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE STUDENT'S PERFORMANCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot drifted too far from the departure field and asked the instructor to take control. The instructor attempted to return but crashed into a tree short of the airport.
What happened
The incident began when the student pilot operating the glider realized that the aircraft had drifted significantly away from the departure field. Recognizing the situation, the student requested that the instructor take control of the aircraft.
Upon assuming control, the instructor evaluated the available options for an emergency landing. An open field was considered as a potential landing site. However, the instructor ultimately decided to attempt a return to the airport instead.
During the maneuvering phase over a high point of ground, the glider struck the top of a tree. The impact caused the aircraft to crash short of the airport.
What happened in the 26 Oct 1991 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Waynesboro, VA?
A student pilot drifted too far from the departure field and asked the instructor to take control. The instructor attempted to return but crashed into a tree short of the airport.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Oct 1991 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N34396, operated by Ridge Valley Soaring Club, at Waynesboro, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE INSTRUCTOR (CFI). CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE STUDENT'S PERFORMANCE.
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