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Casualties unknown

Glider Stall During Pole Avoidance Leads to Ground Impact (N65852)

Barre, MA, US

On October 22, 1995, a Schweizer SGS 2-33 (registration N65852) operated by Bouchard Gliders was involved in an aviation accident near Barre, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper inflight planning/decision, which resulted in his failure to return to the airport after encountering an area of no thermal lift, and his failure to maintain adequate airspeed, while maneuvering to avoid an obstruction during an off… 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 pilot reported stalling at about 25 feet while maneuvering to avoid a utility pole, resulting in a nose-down, left-wing-low impact with the ground.

Incident Overview

A glider pilot reported that while thermal soaring at an altitude of 3,350 feet, the aircraft encountered sinking air. The pilot stated that he attempted to return to the departure airport, but subsequently headed for an open field located one-half mile from the airport. However, a utility pole was in his path.

The Maneuver and Stall

During a turn to avoid the pole, the glider was reported to have stalled about 25 feet above the ground. The aircraft then struck the ground in a nose-down, left-wing-low attitude.

Aftermath

The accident investigation did not provide further details about the pilot, aircraft, or injuries.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Oct 1995 Schweizer SGS 2-33 accident near Barre, MA?

A glider pilot reported stalling at about 25 feet while maneuvering to avoid a utility pole, resulting in a nose-down, left-wing-low impact with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Oct 1995 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33, registration N65852, operated by Bouchard Gliders, at Barre, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper inflight planning/decision, which resulted in his failure to return to the airport after encountering an area of no thermal lift, and his failure to maintain adequate airspeed, while maneuvering to avoid an obstruction during an off airport landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04778. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.