12 Jul 2009: PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD-59

12 Jul 2009: PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD-59 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Durango, CO, United States

Probable cause

The glider pilot's decision to perform a low-altitude 360-degree turn while on final approach to land.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The glider pilot entered a right downwind and turned right base, then to final to land north at the Airport. He noticed the tow plane on the runway taking off south bound. The pilot elected to make an abrupt right 360 degree turn at about 80 feet above ground level and contacted trees. The glider was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious non life threatening injuries.

Contributing factors

  • Attain/maintain not possible
  • Effect on operation
  • Effect on operation
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 220/10kt, vis 10sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 29 Jul 2017 — PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD 55-1 (—)
  • 12 May 2013 — PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD-55-1 (Zlatko Sitar)
  • 28 May 2012 — PDPS PZL-BIELSKO SZD-55-1 (—)

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