Emergency Landing in Bean Field Following Loss of Altitude

Casualties unknown • Eagleville, TN, US

A glider pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a bean field after losing altitude and thermal activity while returning to the departure airport.

What happened

Following takeoff, the pilot navigated the glider to an area characterized by thermal activity. After performing several minutes of upper air work, the pilot decided to return to the departure airport.

During the en route phase of the flight, the pilot encountered an area where it was no longer possible to maintain altitude due to the loss of thermal activity. In response to the descending altitude, the pilot selected a nearby bean field for an emergency landing. During the landing roll, the right wing of the aircraft struck a tall plant, causing the glider to ground loop.

The pilot was not injured in the accident.

Probable cause

The loss of thermal activity prevented the pilot from maintaining altitude, necessitating an emergency landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-08-26 Schleicher ASK-21 accident near Eagleville, TN?

A glider pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a bean field after losing altitude and thermal activity while returning to the departure airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-08-26 involved a Schleicher ASK-21, registration N121FL, at Eagleville, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of thermal activity prevented the pilot from maintaining altitude, necessitating an emergency landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010904X01851. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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