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Glider Collides with Wire Fence During First Solo Flight (N17888)

Tehachapi, CA, US

On October 15, 2007, a Schweizer SGS 2-33A (registration N17888) was involved in an aviation accident near Tehachapi, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudged distance/altitude that led to an undershoot, and his failure to attain the proper touchdown point. 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

During his first solo flight, a glider pilot entered the traffic pattern but encountered turbulence causing altitude loss. On final approach, while correcting alignment, the right wing tip struck a wire fence. The glider came to rest 50 feet short of the runway, facing the fence.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during the pilot's first solo glider flight. The pilot made a standard entry into the traffic pattern for a landing approach. During the approach, he noted some turbulence that caused a decrease in altitude. On the final leg, the pilot attempted a slight correction to align with the runway. The right wing tip collided with a wire fence. The glider came to rest facing the fence, approximately 50 feet short of the runway.

Observations

The instructor of the accident pilot and several witnesses noted that the traffic pattern was flown lower than normal. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 2007 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Tehachapi, CA?

During his first solo flight, a glider pilot entered the traffic pattern but encountered turbulence causing altitude loss. On final approach, while correcting alignment, the right wing tip struck a wire fence. The glider came to rest 50 feet short of the runway, facing the fence.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Oct 2007 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 2007 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N17888, at Tehachapi, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's misjudged distance/altitude that led to an undershoot, and his failure to attain the proper touchdown point.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071119X01815. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.