On April 6, 1996, a Let BLANIK L-13 (registration N65379) was involved in an aviation accident near Jean, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's poorly planned approach. The flight's encounter with a downdraft is a factor in this accident. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot of a glider, after failing to find thermal activity, returned to the airport and entered the traffic pattern, but encountered a high sink rate on final approach and landed short, striking the airport boundary fence.
Accident Details
The glider was aero towed to 2,000 feet above ground level (agl). After release, the pilot was unable to locate adequate thermal activity to sustain flight. The pilot then returned to the airport and entered the traffic pattern at 800 feet agl. On final approach, the pilot encountered a high sink rate. The glider landed short of the runway and collided with the airport boundary fence.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had shortened the base leg turn. He also reported that the glider did not experience any preimpact malfunctions or failures.
What happened in the 6 Apr 1996 Let BLANIK L-13 accident near Jean, NV?
The pilot of a glider, after failing to find thermal activity, returned to the airport and entered the traffic pattern, but encountered a high sink rate on final approach and landed short, striking the airport boundary fence.
Were there any fatalities in the 6 Apr 1996 Let BLANIK L-13 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Apr 1996 involved a Let BLANIK L-13, registration N65379, at Jean, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's poorly planned approach. The flight's encounter with a downdraft is a factor in this accident.
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