On July 18, 2004, a Pdps Pzl-bielsko SZD-50-3 (registration N19SZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Lone Pine, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the clearance between the tree and the wing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing, a glider collided with a tree after the pilot misjudged clearance, tearing off the right wing. The glider spun 270 degrees. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Accident Details
During the landing approach, the glider successfully cleared a set of power lines and continued descending. At an altitude of 15 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot observed a tree ahead. The glider deviated to the right side of the runway centerline. The pilot attempted to judge the distance from the tree to the wing, but misjudged the clearance. Consequently, the wing contacted the tree, causing it to be torn from the fuselage. The glider then rotated 270 degrees from its flight path before coming to rest.
Pilot's Report
The pilot stated that no mechanical malfunctions were noted with the glider prior to the accident. As a preventive measure, the pilot recommended flying a higher approach to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Probable cause
The pilot misjudged the clearance between the tree and the wing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Jul 2004 Pdps Pzl-bielsko SZD-50-3 accident near Lone Pine, CA?
During landing, a glider collided with a tree after the pilot misjudged clearance, tearing off the right wing. The glider spun 270 degrees. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Jul 2004 Pdps Pzl-bielsko SZD-50-3 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jul 2004 involved a Pdps Pzl-bielsko SZD-50-3, registration N19SZ, at Lone Pine, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot misjudged the clearance between the tree and the wing.
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