Glider crash following premature takeoff by tow plane

Casualties unknown • Kutztown, PA, US

A glider crashed into a trailer park after the tow pilot initiated takeoff while the glider pilot was outside the cockpit performing a rudder inspection.

What happened

Prior to departure, the pilot conducted a pre-takeoff inspection of the glider and secured a passenger in the rear seat. The aircraft was then hooked to the tow plane.

After entering the cockpit, the pilot signaled to the tow plane that the aircraft was ready for takeoff. During this process, the pilot observed an imbalance in the travel of the left rudder. In response, the pilot opened the cockpit and signaled to the tow pilot that the flight was being aborted.

The pilot waited briefly to ensure the tow pilot had acknowledged the signal. When no action was taken by the tow pilot, the glider pilot exited the cockpit to perform a visual inspection of the rudder area. While the pilot was outside the aircraft and the passenger remained seated in the rear, the tow pilot initiated the takeoff sequence. Following the takeoff, the tow pilot released the glider, resulting in a crash into a trailer park. There were no fatalities reported.

Probable cause

The tow pilot initiated takeoff after the glider pilot had signaled an abort and exited the cockpit to inspect the rudder.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1990-01-08 Schweizer SGS 2-33A accident near Kutztown, PA?

A glider crashed into a trailer park after the tow pilot initiated takeoff while the glider pilot was outside the cockpit performing a rudder inspection.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1990-01-08 involved a Schweizer SGS 2-33A, registration N2637H, operated by Kutztown Aviation Service,inc., at Kutztown, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The tow pilot initiated takeoff after the glider pilot had signaled an abort and exited the cockpit to inspect the rudder.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22484. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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