Probable cause
The student pilot's incorrect pitch and roll rate control inputs which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and incipient spin at a low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that during a simulated glider tow rope break emergency procedure, the student pilot did not enter the correct control inputs, and the glider stalled and entered an incipient spin. The flight instructor arrested the spin, and was confronted with power line wires. The flight instructor stated that he, "immediately applied down elevator diving under the power lines." The glider impacted the terrain and trees. Substantial damage was sustained to both wings and the horizontal stabilizer.
The flight instructor reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA141 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 25, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Middlefield, Ohio
- Nearest airport
- Geauga County (7G8)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Schweizer SGS 2 32
- N-number
- N275P
- Category
- Glider
- Year built
- 1965
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.