Probable cause
The loss of lift while on final approach which resulted in a hard off-airport landing.
NTSB analysis
The glider pilot reported that while on final approach to land, the ground speed decreased and the glider descended faster than expected. Unable to reach the runway, he diverted to a gravel area to land out. The glider landed hard, and during the landing roll he heard a loud bang that was later identified as a pothole.
The glider sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20CA151 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 11, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Arlington, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Arlington Muni (AWO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Let L 33 SOLO
- N-number
- N355BA
- Category
- Glider
- Year built
- 1999
- 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.