Incident Overview
An airplane involved in a glider towing operation struck an embankment along an interstate highway and nosed over during an attempt to tow a glider out of a field. The glider pilot reported that the flight had departed earlier from a different field. During that earlier flight, the tow airplane made a descending turn to avoid some clouds, prompting the glider pilot to disconnect and land safely in a field.
Subsequent Actions
After the glider landed, the pilot of the tow airplane radioed the glider pilot and stated that he would return to the field to tow the glider out. The tow airplane pilot then overflew the field and landed successfully. Both pilots subsequently walked the field to determine whether there was enough takeoff distance for the towing operation.
Pre-Takeoff Assessment
According to the glider pilot, there was a tailwind, but both pilots agreed that there was sufficient takeoff distance for the tow. The tow airplane pilot then attempted to take off while towing the glider. During this attempt, the airplane struck an embankment along the adjacent interstate highway and nosed over.
Post-Incident Examination
An examination of the tow airplane did not disclose any evidence of mechanical malfunction. The glider was not damaged and remained in the field.