Probable cause
The pilot’s misidentification of the runway during the visual approach which resulted in an off runway landing and impact with a trailer.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that after encountering some unexpected wind shear about 10,000 ft mean sea level, he decided to terminate the flight and return to the departure airport. Given the ground wind conditions, the pilot entered a left traffic pattern to the gravel runway. For an unknown reason, the pilot turned final and lined up for landing on an adjacent parallel gravel roadway. The glider touched down normally and impacted a parked trailer with the right wing. The right wing sustained substantial damage to the leading edge. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA319 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 10, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Elbert, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Kelly Air Park (CO15)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Schleicher ASW-19B
- N-number
- N53JC
- Category
- Glider
- Year built
- 1985
- 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.