Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER SGU 2-22CK near Ephrata, WA — 2009-07-24

Final reportWPR09CA368
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Date
2009-07-24
Location
Ephrata, WA, USA
Airport
EPH
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER SGU 2-22CK
Registration
N3907A
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The premature launch signal given by the wing walker.

NTSB narrative

The certified flight instructor (CFI) and student pilot were onboard the glider readying it for an automobile tow launch. The CFI reported giving the 'take up slack' command to the wing walker, who was steadying the wings. Before the slack was taken up by the tow vehicle driver, the wing walker prematurely gave the launch signal. The tow driver then accelerated and the glider was suddenly launched into the air. The CFI attempted to control the glider by applying full forward elevator and simultaneously attempting to release the tow line. The glider struck the ground with the line still attached and was again launched into the air as the tow truck continued to accelerate. The tow line then released and the nose of the glider struck the ground. The glider sustained substantial damage to the aft fuselage structure during the accident sequence.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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