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Casualties unknown

Glider Collides with Trees During Landing Approach (N5750S)

Erwinna, PA, US

On August 13, 1995, a Schweizer SGS 2-33A (registration N5750S) was involved in an aviation accident near Erwinna, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the flight instructor's inadequate supervision during the final approach which resulted in the student flying a low approach and a subsequent collision with the trees. 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 flight instructor and student pilot struck trees while on approach to the airport after airwork. The instructor reported no mechanical issues.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor and a student pilot were returning to the airport for landing after conducting airwork. During the approach, the glider collided with trees. According to the instructor, he asked the student how the altitude looked for the approach. The student responded that they were high and immediately opened the dive brakes fully and put in a moderate slip. The instructor said "No," pushed the dive brakes shut, and told the student to take out the slip.

Instructor's Actions

The instructor reported that he then aimed for a notch in the trees, put in a crab to stop the side drift, and flew along the line of the runway. Despite these actions, both wingtips hit the trees. The instructor further stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider.

Conclusion

The glider sustained damage from the tree strike. No other information regarding injuries, aircraft registration, or specific location was provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Aug 1995 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Erwinna, PA?

A glider with a flight instructor and student pilot struck trees while on approach to the airport after airwork. The instructor reported no mechanical issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Aug 1995 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N5750S, at Erwinna, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the flight instructor's inadequate supervision during the final approach which resulted in the student flying a low approach and a subsequent collision with the trees. A factor relating to the accident was the student pilot's failure to maintain a proper glidepath.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04351. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.