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Glider Destroyed After Tow Rope Breaks and Strikes Dirt Mound During Landing (N12CG)

Lock Haven, PA, US

On March 14, 1992, a Let L-13 (registration N12CG) operated by Harry C Samuel was involved in an aviation accident near Lock Haven, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A TOW ROPE THAT BROKE AT LOW ALTITUDE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A glider departed on runway 27 for a local pleasure flight. During towed takeoff, the tow rope broke at 220 ft AGL. The pilot maneuvered and elected to land on grass, but struck a dirt mound, destroying the aircraft.

Departure and Tow Rope Failure

A glider was departing on runway 27 for a local pleasure flight. During the towed takeoff, the tow rope broke at 220 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot cleared the tow plane by making a right turn and then turned back to the left to return to the departure field.

Landing and Impact

Due to obstructions near the runway, the pilot elected to land on the grass on the left side of the paved runway. After touchdown, the glider struck a mound of dirt. The impact destroyed the airplane.

Aircraft Damage

The glider was destroyed as a result of the impact with the dirt mound.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Mar 1992 Let L-13 accident near Lock Haven, PA?

A glider departed on runway 27 for a local pleasure flight. During towed takeoff, the tow rope broke at 220 ft AGL. The pilot maneuvered and elected to land on grass, but struck a dirt mound, destroying the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Mar 1992 Let L-13 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Mar 1992 involved a Let L-13, registration N12CG, operated by Harry C Samuel, at Lock Haven, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A TOW ROPE THAT BROKE AT LOW ALTITUDE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14242. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.