On August 19, 1997, a Let BLANIK L-13 (registration N52AS) was involved in an aviation accident near Hamilton, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the glider during the landing roll, resulting in an impact with a taxiway sign. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A glider sustained damage after striking a taxiway sign near the runway turnoff. Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft exited at excessive speed, while the pilot attributed the incident to a wind gust that forced the left wing downward.
What happened
Eyewitnesses observed a glider exiting the runway at an excessive speed immediately after landing. As the aircraft approached the turnoff point, it impacted a taxiway sign located near the exit. The pilot later stated that a gust of wind slammed down the left wing of the glider onto the sign. However, eyewitnesses reported that the winds were light and variable with no gusts or crosswinds.
The investigation
The investigation examined the physical damage to the glider and the location of the taxiway sign. Eyewitness accounts were collected regarding the wind conditions at the time of the incident. The pilot's statement regarding a wind gust was noted but contradicted by eyewitness reports of light and variable winds.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the glider during the landing roll, resulting in an impact with a taxiway sign.
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