Burkhart Grob Flugzeugbau G103 TWIN ASTIR N40880 accident near Marana, Arizona

Probable cause

The glider's loss of lift as a result of unfavorable wind conditions for glider operations, consequently resulting in a collision with trees.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, while maneuvering the glider about 2,900 feet above ground level, the pilot determined that the wind conditions were not conducive to sustain flight and turned toward the runway in order to establish an approach. He recalled that while maneuvering toward the runway, he encountered downdrafts and began to lose altitude rapidly. He reported that he issued a mayday call about ¾ of a statute mile from the runway, established a nose up attitude to decrease the airspeed, and the glider impacted the trees. The glider sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or anomalies with the glider prior to or during the flight that would have prevented normal flight operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA205 for the full record.