Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper in-flight planning, which resulted in a low-altitude traffic pattern entry and subsequent collision with telephone wires.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the glider stated that he was returning to the airport at the conclusion of a 1.5-hour flight. The pilot approached the airport at a slow airspeed and a lower-than-normal altitude due to a misinterpretation of the altimeter reading. The pilot continued the approach for landing, and the glider struck telephone wires on the final leg of the traffic pattern. The glider sustained substantial damage to the wing spar and tailboom. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the glider.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the glider stated that he was returning to the airport at the conclusion of a one-and-a-half hour flight, and approached the airport at a low altitude and slow airspeed. The pilot continued the approach for landing, and struck a telephone wire on the final leg of the traffic pattern. The glider sustained substantial damage to the wing spar and tail boom. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the glider.