Due To Long Grass Blocking His Field Of View, The Pilot Was Unable To Maintain Directional Control

Location: Alvarado, TX Accident Number: CEN20CA218
Date & Time: 06/04/2020, 1715 CDT Registration: N24HC
Aircraft: Glasflugel MOSQUITO Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The glider pilot reported diverting from his original destination due to a weakening of soaring updraft conditions. While on short final to the divert airport that he had landed at on previous occasions, the pilot noticed the turf runway had not been mowed recently.

During the landing rollout, due to long grass blocking his field of view, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control and the glider impacted a fence to the left of the runway, damaging the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation. The divert airport was private and required prior approval for landing.

The pilot recommended that soaring clubs periodically check airports in their area to ensure runway conditions are suitable for a diversion.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov