Full Breakdown
Mid-Air Collision of Two Gliders Near Edinburg, New York
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On Friday, September 18, two glider aircraft collided in mid-air in the vicinity of Wheeler Road, Edinburg, Saratoga County, New York. New York State Police (NYSP) reported that the collision produced debris that was later recovered in a remote area off Sand Lake Road. One glider landed safely at the nearby Plateau Sky Ranch Airport with its pilot unharmed; the pilot of the second glider, who was the sole occupant, was found deceased at the crash site.
Timeline of the Incident
- ? 2:26 p.m. – NYSP received the initial call reporting a possible aircraft collision near Wheeler Road.
- ? 3:00 p.m. – NYSP posted an “incident alert” on its Facebook page and began aerial and ground searches.
- ? 4:54 p.m. – With assistance from State Police Aviation, New York State Forest Rangers, and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, investigators located debris in a remote area off Sand Lake Road.
- Evening – The crash site of the second glider was secured; the pilot was confirmed dead. The other glider had already landed safely at Plateau Sky Ranch Airport.
Investigation and Agency Involvement
The investigation is being coordinated by NYSP with support from State Police Aviation, the New York State Forest Rangers, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, and multiple local fire departments. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified, and both agencies are expected to participate in the ongoing inquiry.
Casualties and Aircraft Outcomes
- Fatality: One pilot, the only occupant of the second glider, was found deceased at the crash site. The pilot’s name has not been released pending family notification.
- Uninjured Pilot: The pilot of the glider that landed at Plateau Sky Ranch Airport sustained no injuries.
- Aircraft Damage: Debris from the fatal glider was recovered off Sand Lake Road; the other glider sustained no reported damage sufficient to prevent a safe landing.
Official Statements & Responses
NYSP issued a statement confirming the collision, the discovery of the deceased pilot, and the ongoing nature of the investigation. The agency also reiterated that the FAA and NTSB have been alerted and will be involved in the investigative process. No additional comment was provided by the FAA at the time of reporting.
On-the-Ground Reporting
Local news crews from WNYT and other outlets arrived on scene shortly after the initial alert. Reporters observed the downed glider off Wheeler Road and documented the safe landing of the second aircraft at Plateau Sky Ranch Airport. NYSP requested that any witnesses contact the department at 518-457-6811.
Data Summary
- Date of collision: September 18 (occurred)
- Time of initial report: ? 2:26 p.m.
- Time debris located: ? 4:54 p.m.
- Location of crash site: Remote area off Sand Lake Road, Edinburg, Saratoga County
- Fatalities: 1 pilot
- Injuries: None reported among the surviving pilot
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not released further details pending the completion of investigative procedures and family notification.