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Casualties unknown

Glider Cartwheels During Low Approach and Turn Attempt (N99860)

Durango, CO, US

On June 3, 2004, a Let BLANIK L-13 (registration N99860) was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper in-flight planning and decision and his failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance. Contributing to the accident was the lack of suitable terrain, and the low approach. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A glider pilot performed a low approach over a field, expecting to gain 300 feet during pull-up but only gaining 100 feet. While maneuvering back to the field, the right wing struck the ground, causing the glider to cartwheel and sustain substantial damage.

Narrative

According to the pilot's statement, as the flight approached the airport, he told the passenger that he likes to come in down to the landing strip and then take off again. The pilot flew over the field to observe the winds, which were calm. He then decided to "fly a low approach over the field and turn around and land."

Pilot's Actions

During the pull-up from the low approach, the pilot expected to gain at least 300 feet; however, he only gained 100 feet. At this point, the glider was over the river with trees ahead, and the pilot elected to maneuver back to the field.

Accident Sequence

During the turn back to the runway, the right wing impacted the ground, and the airplane cartwheeled, causing substantial damage.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040702X00898. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.