Pilot Debrief

SCHEMPP-HIRTH VENTUS 2CM near Paragonah, UT — 2009-06-29

Final reportWPR09LA317
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Date
2009-06-29
Location
Paragonah, UT, USA
Airport
1L9
Aircraft
SCHEMPP-HIRTH VENTUS 2CM
Registration
N68MP
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The glider departed controlled flight for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was competing in a glider competition. He was going to depart using the glider’s engine; however, it would not start so the pilot was required to enter the departure line with the other gliders that were being towed. The initial takeoff was uneventful. The tow plane pilot reported that the glider released from the tow plane approximately 1,800 feet above ground level, which was 200 feet lower than the normal release altitude. A witness then reported that the nose of the glider pitched up and down until entering into a descent to ground impact. Data obtained from onboard recorders showed that the glider entered into a left spiral dive until impact with the ground. Examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions that would have resulted in a loss of control. The pilot had a history of coronary artery disease with angioplasty and stent placement 3 months prior to the accident, and an intermittent abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) noted at that time. He would have been at low risk for clot formation in the stent or for stroke or other incapacitation related to his atrial fibrillation, but the condition of his remains did not permit the evaluation of any potential abnormalities in the heart or brain. The pilot did not have a current FAA medical certificate, and none was required for the operations in which he was engaged.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have delayed tow release until reaching 2000 feet.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 14 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents14

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