What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-08-16 involved a Piper PA-25-235, registration N9781P, at Hinckley, IL.

Tow Plane Pilot Reports Violent Jerk and Nose-Down Attitude During Glider Tow (N9781P)

On August 16, 1997, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N9781P) was involved in an aviation accident near Hinckley, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the failure of the glider pilot to properly handle his airplane during the initial takeoff climb which resulted in the tow pilot's inability to maintain control of his airplane. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A tow plane pilot reported a large pull on the tail shortly after takeoff, followed by a violent jerk at 100-150 ft. The aircraft nosed down, and despite releasing the tow rope, it continued descending until terrain contact.

Incident Overview

A tow plane pilot reported that after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 50 feet above ground level, he felt a 'large pull' on the tail of his airplane. Looking back, he observed the glider was 'very high and off to my left side.' Subsequently, he felt slack in the tow line, leading him to believe the glider was moving back into position.

Sequence of Events

At an altitude between 100 and 150 feet, a 'violent jerk' occurred, forcing the tow plane into a nose-down attitude. The pilot released the tow rope, but the airplane continued in the nose-down attitude until it contacted the terrain.

Pilot Actions

The pilot attempted to rectify the situation by releasing the tow line after the violent jerk. Despite this action, the aircraft maintained its nose-down descent and impacted the ground.

Investigation Notes

No further details about the aircraft, glider, location, or injuries are provided in the available source. The report does not specify any conclusions regarding the cause of the incident.

1997-08-16: Piper PA-25-235 (N9781P) — Hinckley, IL