Pilot Debrief

GROB G103 near Wellington, CO — 2009-06-19

Final reportCEN09CA368
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Date
2009-06-19
Location
Wellington, CO, USA
Airport
4CO2
Aircraft
GROB G103
Registration
N5462N
Category
Glider
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the glider during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the initial takeoff roll was normal, but that after a premature takeoff due to wind gusts and thermals the glider controls became ineffective. The pilot attempted to pull the tow line release knob and reported that the tow line “back-released,” resulting in the glider entering a stall. During the impact with terrain, the glider's empennage separated partially, just aft of the fuselage. Examination of the tow line release mechanism and glider systems revealed no mechanical anomalies.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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