7 Jul 2008: Schleicher ASK-21 — Harris Hill Soaring Corporation

7 Jul 2008: Schleicher ASK-21 — Harris Hill Soaring Corporation

No fatalities • Elmira, NY, United States

Probable cause

The glider pilot's misjudged distance/altitude while soaring.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot stated that after his Schleicher ASK-21 glider was towed aloft to 2,000 feet and released, he flew too far from the airport traffic pattern. He said that during the return to the airport, he encountered a "sink and waterfall" effect, which caused a low approach, resulting in his inability to make it to the airport. Subsequently, there was a collision with terrain 100 feet short of the runway. The pilot added that there were no deficiencies with the performance and handling of the glider.

Contributing factors

  • Thermal lifting
  • cause Descent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 240/11kt, vis 7sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 6 Oct 2024 — SCHLEICHER ASK-21 (SKYLINE SOARING CLUB INC)
  • 30 Jun 2009 — SCHLEICHER ASK-21 (John M Henderson)
  • 10 May 2008 — Schleicher ASK-21 (Skylark North)

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