Primary finding
Probable cause
The glider’s encounter with atmospheric conditions where the lift was not sufficient to maintain flight, which resulted in an off-airport landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the return flight to the airport, the glider encountered more downdrafts than he expected, and that the glider did not have sufficient altitude to reach the airport. During the subsequent forced landing into trees and shrubby, the glider’s fuselage and wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the glider that would have precluded normal operation.