Summary
On June 19, 2009, a Grob G103 (N5462N) was involved in an incident near Wellington, CO. All 2 people aboard were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this incident to be: The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the glider during takeoff.
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.
This incident is documented in NTSB report CEN09CA368. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N5462N.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the glider during takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
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.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN09CA368