Probable cause
The pilot's attempt to maneuver away from power lines during a forced landing, which resulted in a collision with a tree and a fence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was participating in a regional soaring contest when the weather conditions changed and he was unable to maintain altitude. The pilot prepared to land in a field, but once he approached the field he saw power lines. The pilot tried to avoid the power lines but the glider struck a tree and a fence, which resulted in damage to the left wing and empennage. The pilot reported there were no mechanical deficiencies with the glider that contributed to the cause of the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14CA409 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 6, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Brenham, Texas
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Glasflugel H 301 B LIBELLE
- N-number
- N1615
- Category
- Glider
- Year built
- 1968
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.