Incident Details
A glider operated by a certified flight instructor (CFI) sustained substantial damage during an approach. The CFI and a student pilot were on board at the time. The incident occurred while the glider was maneuvering for a downwind landing.
Sequence of Events
During the approach, the CFI observed that the glider was too low for a normal approach and landing. To compensate, the CFI decided to cut the corner and flew over a small clump of trees. On the downwind side of the trees, the glider encountered a significant sink, which caused the aircraft to descend rapidly. The CFI subsequently landed in a soft field.
Upon touchdown, the glider bounced hard. During the bounce, the right wingtip dug into the ground, leading to the substantial damage reported. The student pilot provided a similar account of the events, corroborating the CFI's description.
Post-Incident Report
According to the CFI, there were no mechanical malfunctions with the glider. The aircraft's performance was not affected by any pre-existing issues. The incident appears to have been solely related to the approach and landing conditions encountered.