Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s unstabilized approach, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the powered glider reported that, while maneuvering for landing for runway 26, he was distracted by a helicopter and the approach of another glider. He elected to land on runway 17, and while on final approach, the powered glider was high and landed over 1000 ft down the runway. The powered glider overran the departure end of the runway and impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the aft fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the powered glider that would have precluded normal operation.