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Casualties unknown

Glider Drifts Off Runway and Strikes Tree During Approach (N34292)

Warner Springs, CA, US

On February 4, 2002, a Schweizer SGS 2-33A (registration N34292) was involved in an aviation accident near Warner Springs, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing sequence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A glider drifted off the runway centerline during approach, resulting in a left wing strike with a tree and a hard landing. The student pilot's control input cross-controlled the glider, leading to further drift, and a subsequent stall while maneuvering to avoid another tree.

Accident Details

A glider experienced a loss of directional control during its approach to land. The aircraft drifted off the runway centerline, and the left wing made contact with a tree. The glider subsequently landed hard on the runway.

Sequence of Events

According to the investigation, the student pilot was unable to correct the deviation from the centerline. His control input resulted in a cross-controlled condition, causing the glider to drift further off the intended path. In an effort to avoid a tree, the pilot maneuvered the glider, which induced an aerodynamic stall. No mechanical anomalies with the glider were reported.

The incident occurred on approach, and the pilot noted no preexisting issues with the aircraft.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Feb 2002 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Warner Springs, CA?

A glider drifted off the runway centerline during approach, resulting in a left wing strike with a tree and a hard landing. The student pilot's control input cross-controlled the glider, leading to further drift, and a subsequent stall while maneuvering to avoid another tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Feb 2002 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N34292, at Warner Springs, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing sequence.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020207X00198. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.