Probable cause
A loss of lift that resulted in an off-airport landing.
NTSB analysis
While returning from a cross-country glider flight, the pilot reported losing lift and encountering downdrafts along his route. He elected to make an off-airport landing. During the landing approach, the glider impacted the top of a tree at approximately 12 feet above the ground; subsequently, it impacted terrain on the chin of its' fuselage and came to rest in an upright position. The force of the impact resulted in the separation of both wings. Examination of the glider revealed that the fuselage, canopy, and wings were structurally damaged.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA389 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 5, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marana, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- El Tiro Gliderport (AZ67)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Eiriavion Oy PIK 20B
- N-number
- N77MA
- Category
- Glider
- 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.