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Casualties unknown

Glider Impacts Terrain While Attempting to Cross Ridgeline (N271EC)

Valyermo, CA, US

On June 19, 2003, a Schleicher ASW-27B (registration N271EC) was involved in an aviation accident near Valyermo, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance altitude and his delayed remedial action by not turning away from the ridge when a lack of lift became apparent.. 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 struck trees and mountainous terrain while crossing a ridgeline shortly after release from a tow plane. The flight lasted 6 minutes 28 seconds, with no preimpact malfunctions or adverse weather reported.

Accident Overview

A glider impacted trees and mountainous terrain while attempting to cross a ridgeline. The glider had released from the tow plane approximately one minute prior to the accident. According to data from the GPS Flight Data Recorder, the total duration of the flight was 6 minutes and 28 seconds.

Flight Data

The last recorded data showed the glider at an altitude of 5,941 feet mean sea level (msl) with a ground speed of 59 mph. The final recorded position was 2,000 feet laterally northwest of the accident site. The elevation at the accident site was 5,798 feet msl.

Conditions and Examination

No unusual or adverse weather conditions were reported in the vicinity. An examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact malfunctions or failures. Lower terrain was located behind the pilot's attempted flight track.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jun 2003 Schleicher ASW-27B accident near Valyermo, CA?

A glider struck trees and mountainous terrain while crossing a ridgeline shortly after release from a tow plane. The flight lasted 6 minutes 28 seconds, with no preimpact malfunctions or adverse weather reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jun 2003 involved a Schleicher ASW-27B, registration N271EC, at Valyermo, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance altitude and his delayed remedial action by not turning away from the ridge when a lack of lift became apparent..

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030702X01012. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.