On October 6, 2007, a Let BLANIK L-13 (registration N510CS) was involved in an aviation accident near Hemet, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain a proper descent rate due to his failure to close the air brake and/or partially retract the flaps during an encounter with lost lift on final approach. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A glider pilot on his first solo flight in an L-13 glider collided with an airport boundary fence on final approach after experiencing a loss of lift. The air brake was found open and flaps deployed post-accident.
Incident Details
During the latter part of the traffic pattern, the pilot encountered a loss of lift. The glider subsequently collided with the airport boundary fence while on final approach. According to the pilot, on the downwind leg, he partially deployed the flaps and partially opened the air brake. On the final leg, he experienced a significant loss of lift but could not recall whether he had closed the air brake.
Pilot Background
The pilot had been checked out by his flight instructor to fly the L-13 glider earlier that day. The accident flight was his first solo flight in this glider type.
Post-Accident Findings
A photograph taken immediately after the accident by the pilot's flight instructor showed the air brake to be open and the flaps deployed. No other information about the aircraft or circumstances was provided.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Oct 2007 Let BLANIK L-13 accident near Hemet, CA?
A glider pilot on his first solo flight in an L-13 glider collided with an airport boundary fence on final approach after experiencing a loss of lift. The air brake was found open and flaps deployed post-accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Oct 2007 involved a Let BLANIK L-13, registration N510CS, at Hemet, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain a proper descent rate due to his failure to close the air brake and/or partially retract the flaps during an encounter with lost lift on final approach.
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