Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s encounter with atmospheric conditions where the lift was not sufficient to maintain flight.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot in the glider reported that, during the return flight to the airport, he encountered a higher sink rate than expected and did not have sufficient altitude to reach the airport. During an emergency landing in a fruit orchard, the glider landing gear contacted utility pole wires, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation.