2000-05-22: Let L-13 — Pensacola, FL

Casualties unknown • Pensacola, FL, US

Probable cause

The student's failure to maintain the proper landing pattern altitude resulting in an undershoot during landing and collision with a fence. A factor in the accident was the pilot's failure to realize the spoilers were still deployed during the undershoot.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the student glider pilot, as well as his CFI who was observing from the ground, his base turn from the downwind leg was made at too low an altitude and too late, relative to his position in the landing pattern, to allow for arrival at the runway with sufficient altitude and airspeed for a safe landing. Contributing to the low and slow condition on final approach was the pilot's failure to realize the spoilers were still deployed. The glider collided with an airport perimeter fence short of the runway causing substantial damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-05-22 Let L-13 accident near Pensacola, FL?

According to the student glider pilot, as well as his CFI who was observing from the ground, his base turn from the downwind leg was made at too low an altitude and too late, relative to his position in the landing pattern, to allow for arrival at the runway with sufficient altitude and airspeed for a safe landing.…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-05-22 involved a Let L-13, registration N90867, at Pensacola, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student's failure to maintain the proper landing pattern altitude resulting in an undershoot during landing and collision with a fence. A factor in the accident was the pilot's failure to realize the spoilers were still deployed during the undershoot.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21077. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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