What happened
On April 13, 2026, at approximately 10:51 Pacific standard time, an Alexander Schleicher GMBH & Co. Ash 31 Mi glider, registration N77UK, was involved in an accident near Williams, California. The aircraft departed from Williams Gliderport (CN12) as part of a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91.
During the climbout phase, at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot confirmed that the emergency fuel pump was operational and assessed available landing sites. Due to the presence of power lines directly ahead, the pilot attempted a right turn to return to the runway. During this maneuver, the right wingtip contacted the terrain. The aircraft's nose and main landing gear subsequently struck a plowed field, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. Witnesses at the airport observed the initial departure, but noted the aircraft was only seen again performing a steep right turn.
Injuries
The pilot sustained one minor injury during the accident; there were no fatalities.