1996-10-30: Let L-13 — Wendylene, Inc — Benton, TN

Casualties unknown • Benton, TN, US

Probable cause

failure of the flight crew to maintain altitude/clearance above runway obstacles, and inadequate supervision by the flight instructor. Factors relating to the accident were sunglare on the canopy, and the proximity of obstacles (trees) to the runway.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The glider collided with a tree during final approach to landing on runway 21. According to the instructor and the student, they did not see the tree because of dusk lighting conditions, which placed the sun low on the horizon and produced glare on the glider canopy. The instructor stated that the tree was about 300 feet from the runway threshold. Runway obstacle information indicated that the threshold for the runway was displaced 200 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-10-30 Let L-13 accident near Benton, TN?

The glider collided with a tree during final approach to landing on runway 21. According to the instructor and the student, they did not see the tree because of dusk lighting conditions, which placed the sun low on the horizon and produced glare on the glider canopy. The instructor stated that the tree was about 300…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-10-30 involved a Let L-13, registration N15CB, operated by Wendylene, Inc, at Benton, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of the flight crew to maintain altitude/clearance above runway obstacles, and inadequate supervision by the flight instructor. Factors relating to the accident were sunglare on the canopy, and the proximity of obstacles (trees) to the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06844. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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