On 21 Apr 2010, a SCHWEIZER SGS1-34 operated by Caesar Creek Soaring Club was involved in an aviation accident near Waynesville, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient airspeed, which led to an aerodynamic stall. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A Schweizer SGS1-34 glider experienced an aerodynamic stall during a landing attempt at a grass airstrip.
What happened
On April 21, 2010, a Schweizer SGS1-34 operated by the Caesar Creek Soaring Club was attempting to land at a grass airstrip in Waynesville, Ohio. During the approach, the pilot attempted to return to the airstrip but descended to an insufficient altitude. While executing a turn, the pilot failed to maintain enough airspeed, leading to an aerodynamic stall. As the left wing dropped, the pilot applied right rudder, but the right wing subsequently struck the terrain. The impact caused substantial damage to the wing and empennage of N1148S. There were no fatalities and no serious injuries, though one person sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
Investigation of the event focused on the pilot's maneuvers during the final approach. The pilot reported that the aircraft entered a stall due to a turn that was too steep for the available airspeed.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient airspeed, which led to an aerodynamic stall.
Contributing factors
Airspeed — Not attained/maintainedAltitude — Not attained/maintainedPilot