Glider loss of velocity during final approach

Casualties unknown • Wailua, HI, US

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of airspeed and a nose-down attitude while attempting to land a glider during blustery conditions.

What happened

During the landing sequence, the pilot reported encountering blustery winds ranging from 15 to 20 knots. The approach began with the pilot turning to final at 350 feet using full spoilers. As the altitude decreased to 200 feet, the spoiler deployment was reduced to 25 percent while maintaining a speed of 75 to 80 miles per hour (mph). At 100 feet, the pilot increased the spoilers to 50 percent.

At an altitude of 25 feet, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of velocity, which was immediately followed by a nose-down attitude. Upon initial contact with the runway, the glider's nose lifted, causing the aircraft to become airborne again. In an attempt to flare, the pilot applied full spoilers and performed a forward slide. This resulted in the nose touching down, followed quickly by the tail contacting the ground. The glider subsequently became airborne one final time before touching down and coming to a stop within 15 to 20 feet of the initial contact.

Probable cause

A sudden loss of airspeed at low altitude during the final approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-06-28 Schweizer SGS-2-33A accident near Wailua, HI?

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of airspeed and a nose-down attitude while attempting to land a glider during blustery conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-06-28 involved a Schweizer SGS-2-33A, registration N17902, at Wailua, HI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden loss of airspeed at low altitude during the final approach.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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