Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER SGS 2-33A near Falcon, CO — 2024-03-12

Final reportCEN24LA133
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Date
2024-03-12
Location
Falcon, CO, USA
Airport
FLY
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER SGS 2-33A
Registration
N2905H
Category
Glider
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The flight instructor’s failure to maintain control during takeoff which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and an impact with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The flight instructor stated that during the ground launch he rotated the glider and then accelerated in ground effect before he pulled aft stick to accelerate on the launch arc. He then applied right stick correction for runway alignment after which a gust of wind lifted the right wing. The flight instructor was unable to counter the left roll with flight control inputs and the glider stalled. The tow rope, once side loaded, automatically disconnected as designed. The left wing impacted the ground which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. The flight instructor stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal glider operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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